Fitzroy House, Fitzroy

At the helm of this transformation is JCB, an architectural firm known for its commitment to sustainable and socially conscious design. Working closely with interior design firm Hecker Guthrie, JCB set out to create more than just a building; they aimed to craft a space that honours Fitzroy's past while embracing its dynamic present.

JCB Project Architect, Sam Franklin, shares insights into the challenges and inspirations that shaped Fitzroy House. "Our goal was to acknowledge the site's heritage while creating a contemporary living experience," Franklin explains. "We wanted to pay homage to the building's history while setting a new standard for urban living."

The building’s glass panels were given a dark tint as a nod to the neighbourhood’s grit and tenacity, while premium materials such as black odyssey marble walls, European oak timber joinery, and aged iron finishes pay homage to the area's rich heritage.

Ceilings soaring at 3.3 metres and high, curved windows flood the residences with light, creating a sense of openness and connection to the building's history. "We wanted to honour Fitzroy's enduring position in the Melbourne story while infusing the space with a contemporary flair," Franklin explains. "The result is a harmonious blend of past and present, where residents can experience the best of both worlds."

Selecting Sun Shading

One of the key challenges faced in delivering the project was finding the right balance between preserving the building's heritage and implementing modern sun protection and thermal comfort solutions. Franklin elaborates, "We needed solutions that would enhance the building's energy efficiency without compromising its architectural integrity."

Enter Warema's E80 A6 S external venetian blinds. These innovative blinds not only provide effective sun protection and thermal comfort but also integrate well with the building's design. Franklin praises their robust quality and ability to be fully concealed, stating, "The motorised blinds were a perfect fit for our needs, offering both functionality and aesthetic appeal."

The decision to use 80mm rolled edge slats and a Flat White finish was carefully considered to ensure harmony with the building's overall design language. "We wanted the blinds to complement the building's contemporary aesthetic while maintaining a subtle presence,” explains Franklin. 

For JCB, the use of Warema blinds from Shade Factor was instrumental in bringing their architectural vision to life. "The blinds allowed us to provide solar protection while maximising residents' views and maintaining design coherence," says Franklin. "They became an integral part of the building's identity, enhancing both its form and function."