Perched above Brisbane’s Story Bridge, this riverside apartment underwent a bold transformation, prioritizing flow, functionality and refined aesthetics. By reconfiguring the layout, a small third bedroom was sacrificed to expand the living and dining areas, seamlessly integrated a bespoke bar. This redesign celebrates high-end finishes, moody tones, and considered craftmanship, resulting in a home that marries sophisticated with liveability.
Entry: First Impressions
The entry sets the tone for the home, with its sculptural elegance and materiality. Terrazzo tiles sourced from Signorino, pave the way to a high-gloss lacquered console in Dulux ‘Bruised Burgundy’, which exudes depth and drama. The custom smoked mirror set behind the console further dramatizes the space whilst also hinting at the apartments broader design language.
BEFORE –
AFTER –
Kitchen: Functional Precision Meets Aesthetic Finesse
The kitchen is the heart of this transformation, showcasing a curated palette of materials and precision detailing. The custom round edge stainless-steel benchtop and mirroring overhead panel sets a sleek, industrial tone, softened by Japanese ‘Kohsuta’ mosaic splashback tiles, whose subtle gloss comes alive under integrated LED strip lighting.
Above, a floating shelf tiled to match the splashback blends functionality with design continuity. The joinery, finished in Polytec Florentine Walnut woodgrain, wraps seamlessly into the adjacent bar area, unifying the spaces. Appliances are fully integrated, and the benchtop Infinity Milan Stone by SNB Stone balances luxury with practicality. Overhead, running surface mounted track lighting ensures the space is a functional as it is atmospheric.
BEFORE –
AFTER –
Bar: A Sophisticated Hub For Entertaining
Adjoining seamlessly with the kitchen, the bar area exudes a moody, Peaky Blinders-inspired character. Featuring Savage Design custom wine racking and dual Vintec wine fridges, the space is rich in texture and intrigue, with cork tiles and smoked mirrors adding depth and a touch of drama. The bar seating is elevated by a buttery, cognac-coloured leather bench seat from Hume International, which doubles as a single bed for added functionality. A custom tiled table by Didier, sourced through Ebb and Flow, serves as a sculptural centrepiece, paired with the iconic Fogia Bollo Dining Chairs from Fred International, creating an intimate and stylish entertaining zone.
BEFORE –
AFTER –
Living: An Intimate Retreat
The living space was designed to accommodate both intimate moments and vibrant social gatherings. A built-in electric fireplace with stainless steel detailing is integrated into a custom base plinth, clad in Academy Animart tiles, creating a sleek, architectural focal point. Surrounding the fireplace, Polytec Florentine Walnut Woodgrain joinery adds warmth and texture, balancing the modern edge with a natural touch.
An inviting Arthur G custom sofa, chosen for its streamlined silhouette and plush comfort, anchors the room alongside a gorgeous one-of-a-kind rug by Cadrys that softens the space with its subtle tones and luxurious texture. The iconic Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman from Living Edge paired with the Vintage B&O floor lamps adds an air of timeless sophistication, offering the ultimate in modern luxury.
The centrepiece of the living room, a LifeSpaceJourney coffee table from Ebb & Flow, brings a vibrant burst of personality with its bold cobalt blue finish, introducing a playful contrast to the otherwise neautral palette. Side tables from Christopher Blank and Jardan complement the composition, adding layers of craftsmanship and thoughtful design. Completing the room’s ambiance is a dedicated record display, inviting music and nostalgia into this refined and intimate space.
BEFORE –
AFTER –
Primary Suite: Retreat-Like Sophistication
The primary suite is a sanctuary of layered textures and thoughtful design. A custom built-in bedhead forms a striking focal point for the space. Walls combine painted finishes in Dulux ‘Excelsior’ and textured wallpaper from Kravet to create a moody, calming atmosphere. In addition, a custom desk / daybed was integrated into the bedroom, adding to the functionality and modern lifestyle of the client.
The walk-through robe features LED-lit storage concealed behind Polytec Woodmatt cabinetry in ‘Florentine Walnut’, offering both practicality and elegance. In the ensuite, Artedomus tiles, laid in a checkerboard pattern are paired with knurled tapware by Astra Walker, and a niche with LED lighting.
BEFORE –
AFTER –
Balcony: Elevated Outdoor Living
The balcony continues the apartment’s material narrative, featuring Jardan outdoor sofas and high-gloss ‘red rock’ finished coffee table by Gubi. The Fermob Balad portable lanterns add functional yet stylish accents, while the Kartell outdoor rug with textured fringing grounds the space. Lush planters and muted tones ensure the balcony feels cohesive with the interior, offering a serene retreat with uninterrupted views.