Urban Play at George Corner

This article by Beverley Johanson originally appeared in the Sunday Age on 18 October 2015 and is republished here with the journalists’ permission.

In one of the picturesque streets that still speaks clearly of Fitzroy’s early days, but sits on the doorstep of all that is exciting about the suburb in the 21st century, Neometro has built George Corner, a group of 40 apartments over six levels.

“The building’s facade draws from the site’s industrial heritage and remains true to the urban fabric of the area,” says James Tutton, director of Neometro, a design and socially focused development group that was founded in 1985.

Photo by Derek Swalwell

She has a strong interest in environmentally sustainable design and has created a building that focuses on residents’ well-being.

Double glazing, heating and air- conditioning, video security in the basement car park and foyer, optimum ventilation and abundant natural light make it an easy, comfortable building in which to live.

A cafe on the ground floor will add a lively vibe to the amenity.

The exterior is predominantly off-form concrete and natural cement renders with timber inserts.

Moveable external screens and blinds in three shades of red – a reference to the brick of the old warehouses – are a lively and dynamic element of the exterior, changing it at the whim of the occupants.

The interior combines polished concrete, natural timber floors and exposed concrete walls complemented by an understated palette of white walls and black frames to the doors and windows.

Ribbon-thin skirting boards and black accents in door and light fittings are clean- cut and stylish.

Photo by Derek Swalwell

Deck-style balconies add an element of texture.

Living areas have warm timber or polished concrete floors and bedrooms are carpeted.

Details such as recharge stations for electronic devices have been incorporated into the 14 one-bedroom and 26 two- bedroom apartments and some have study nooks with sliding doors. Storage has been maximised.

Kitchens have soft-close drawers and cupboards, textured splashbacks, stainless steel benches and Miele appliances. Some have a moveable bench creating a high degree of flexibility.

The bathrooms are an interesting rhythmic play on charcoal and white. Dark floor tiles are grouted with white while the walls have square and rectangular white tiles outlined in charcoal.

Construction of George Corner is now complete and residents will move in before the end of the year.

Neometro collaborated with Hub, the uber-design furniture and lighting retailer, to furnish an apartment and show owners and the potential buyers of just how fabulous their living spaces could be.

Hub owner and director Jaci Foti-Lowe also delivered a masterclass on how to furnish for maximum comfort and good looks.

Photo by Derek Swalwell

“The key is to feel comfortable, not cluttered, and that means understanding that the things that might give you joy in a sprawling space may not give the same sense of tranquillity in an apartment,” she said.

“There are rewards that come with a small space as long as you recognise that what you leave out is just as important as the furniture you put in.”

One-bedroom apartments range from $445,000 to $540,000 and two-bedrooms from $750,000 to $835,000.

The prototype apartment at 377 George Street is open by appointment. Phone Rosemary Sarr on 8598 9600.