John Wardle Architects - 424 Malvern Road

This finely detailed residential development appears in a constant state of flux, its edges moving and shifting as it responds to its inhabitants’ use. With eight generously sized apartments and retail space at ground level, the five-storey development seeks to provide unique residential amenity whilst restoring a once dilapidated industrial automotive site. A two-storey podium of custom made brick and steel framed windows is activated by a series of apertures and portals, revealing the use and activities of the spaces within. A large picture window showcases the inner mechanics of a triple height car stacker storage system, a reference to the history of the local automobile industry on the site. A double height void within the corner retail space illuminates as a lantern, signifying the prominence of the corner intersection of Malvern Road and Francis Street.

Transient in nature, the upper level apartments are veiled behind a series of operable metal screens, providing thermal protection and privacy. Each screen type responds to the individual, creating an inhabited edge that is constantly shifting. Their materiality and colour are mute, merging with the background of a typical Melbourne cloudy sky, whilst acting as a counterpoint to the grounded character of the brick podium. The one and two-bedroom apartments are orientated to maximize views, daylight and ventilation. The upper levels are enclosed by high thermal-performing timber framed windows, providing intimacy and warmth in a refined material palette. To the first floor the solidity of brick provides a visual and acoustic buffer to Malvern Road, whilst the steel framed windows and openings are scaled for privacy and framing of views.