Elsternwick Penthouse: Redefining Intergenerational Luxury Living in Melbourne

A Penthouse That Balances Heritage and Innovation

The Elsternwick Penthouse, designed by Office Alex Nicholls, transforms two separate penthouse apartments into a single 700 m² intergenerational family home. Located in Melbourne, Australia, this residence epitomizes luxury living through innovative spatial arrangements, thoughtful design elements, and a seamless blend of functionality and aesthetics.

Key Design Concepts: Tailoring Spaces for Modern Lifestyles

1. The Library Spine: A Celebration of Art and Functionality

At the heart of the penthouse lies the library spine, which stretches the length of the residence. It houses the family’s collection of books, art, and artifacts while doubling as a design feature that integrates with the entrance lobby and staircase. This element serves as a functional and aesthetic centerpiece, uniting vertical and horizontal circulation within the home.

2. The Magic Box Kitchens: Abstract and Functional

The magic box kitchens are flexible, colorful, and highly functional. These minimal, abstract volumes delineate zones within the apartment and contrast with the warm, natural material palette. Their influence extends into other areas of the home, including bespoke bathroom stonework and furniture.

3. Oculus Skylights: A Nod to Art Deco Heritage

A series of semi-circular oculus skylights illuminate the main living spaces, referencing the local Art Deco architecture. These skylights enhance the abstract geometric composition of the design, echoing smaller circular oculi placed strategically throughout the apartment to introduce natural light where needed.

Space Division: A Home for All Generations

East: Social Spaces for Togetherness

The eastern wing houses the main kitchen, living, and dining areas. These spaces are active hubs designed for gatherings and entertaining.

West: Privacy and Relaxation

The western wing offers informal, private spaces, including the "Evening Garden," an indoor-outdoor lounge. This area caters to the younger family members while maintaining privacy for senior members.

Flexibility for the Future

The penthouse design incorporates future-proofing elements, allowing the residence to split into two separate apartments if required, ensuring long-term adaptability.

Wellness and Recreation: Subterranean Luxury

Basement Spa: A Holistic Retreat

A former car park has been reimagined as a basement spa, offering a wellness oasis. Features include:

• A fitness pool and sauna
• Kitchenette and change rooms
• A flexible rehabilitation space

Warm colors, indirect lighting, and natural materials recreate the serene ambiance of a Finnish sauna or Japanese onsen, providing a restorative escape despite the lack of natural light.

Rooftop Living: Year-Round Outdoor Enjoyment

The rooftop features two sukkah pavilions, designed for the Jewish festival of Sukkot and everyday use. These semi-enclosed structures include:

• Cooking and dining areas
• Shade walls and bamboo canopies
• Curvilinear planters offering wind protection and privacy

Surrounded by greenery, the rooftop provides a tranquil space with panoramic views, blending functionality and beauty.

Material Palette: Warm, Timeless, and Inviting

Natural materials like stone, wood, and bamboo dominate the penthouse’s aesthetic. This earthy palette contrasts beautifully with the bold colors of the magic box kitchens and bespoke furniture, creating a sophisticated yet welcoming environment.

A New Standard for Luxury Living

The Elsternwick Penthouse combines intergenerational functionality, innovative design, and luxurious finishes to create a residence that stands as a hallmark of modern living in Melbourne. From its adaptive spaces to its nods to local architectural heritage, this penthouse is a masterclass in blending practicality with artistic expression.

All Photographs are work of Rory Gardiner