Brunswick Residence

This single level sewing factory was transformed by Ivo Solar Homes from timeworn treasure into a contemporary, two-story warehouse apartment. Wedged between buildings in a former industrial area, the factory measured just 15m D X 4m W from boundary to boundary. Ivo collaborated with the owners to establish a design solution that would maximise every square centimetre available.

With a budget as compact as the space, Ivo elected to retain and recycle as many existing materials as possible. A significant steel pivot door bordered with oregon roof rafters creates a grand entrance - while the original concrete floors have been polished back to perfection.

Downstairs sees a generous space incorporating kitchen, dining and living room, plus bedroom and bathroom fitted with a recycled oregon vanity bench. A laundry leads through to the pocket sized atrium courtyard boasting outdoor shower and hanging space for bikes.

A 'dog leg' staircase of galvanised steel leads upstairs to the cathedral rooved master bedroom, opening onto an ensuite bathroom and out to a marvelous New York style rooftop deck and garden - complete with workshop neatly tucked behind. Excellent usage of space continues with a mezzanine floor built into the roof cavity, housing the family's 'rumpus room' retreat. A short six-month build, the result is urban design at its best.

“We all worked hard to meet a tight budget - recycling materials wherever possible, sourcing fittings at auction houses and being smart with our features. The result is a home that looks a million bucks, like no expense was spared.”