A decade of design brings to life Collingwood's Otter Place by Milieu
Melbourne's vibrant Fitzroy and Collingwood neighbourhoods are set to welcome a new architectural gem that embodies a decade of creative development by developers Milieu.
Otter Place, the latest addition to the area, promises to be a tangible expression of Milieu's values and an impactful contribution to the local community.
"The design draws on our projects completed across the decade and gets to the heart of who we are, what we represent, and what we envision for urban development," Milieu say.
Collaborating with international design studio Hassell and local practice DesignOffice, Milieu has crafted a building that pays homage to its surroundings while leaving a mark on the streetscape.
"As our sixth project in partnership with DesignOffice, Otter Place is the result of a decade of experimentation and refinement."
Situated just moments away from the bustling Smith Street, the cultural and culinary epicentre of Fitzroy and Collingwood, Otter Place finds itself at the heart of Melbourne's highly regarded dining precinct.
Otter Place will deliver 28 luxury residences that are representative of its location in the heart of Collingwood’s eclectic and progressive Smith Street precinct, with two-storey, walk-up, townhomes to penthouses with panoramic CBD views and podium apartments that open onto framed vignettes of iconic inner Melbourne architecture.
Nestled amidst Wellington, Victoria, Johnston, and Brunswick streets, the neighbourhood boasts an unrivalled selection of cafes, restaurants, bars, and cultural institutions. As long-time residents of Collingwood, Milieu understands and cherishes the distinct personality, diverse people, and inclusive community that make this area so beloved.
The architectural composition of Otter Place is a testament to Hassel's attention to detail. The building is divided into two distinct forms, each one reflecting and celebrating the local surroundings. The lower levels, constructed with brick, pay homage to the industrial masonry architecture prevalent in the area. Meanwhile, the upper levels feature an elegant glass design that captures, reflects, and amplifies the shape and detailing of the neighbouring buildings.
"By studying the existing urban context and brick detailing we’ve created an authentic celebration of the area’s post-industrial masonry architecture while also charting an exciting future ahead. The building base rethinks the contextual material of bricks via a lower façade of shimmering white glazed brick punctuated with window openings of varying sizes that create a striking impact on the streetscape," Hassel said.
"The reflective glazing of the upper levels quite literally mirrors the city, and reads as one object, delicately floating above the solid brick podium."
Inside Otter Place, an elevated yet functional design ethos prevails. The interiors have been assembled using distinguished materials and boast flexible layouts tailored to modern living. Inspired by the simplicity and effectiveness of gallery spaces, the interiors also incorporate smart technology throughout.
Lighting plays a crucial role in creating the desired ambiance, and Otter Place demonstrates a departure from conventional downlights. Instead, a curated suite of uplights, spotlights, and wall lights has been selected to enhance various moods and functions throughout the day.
The proportions and strategic window placement within the residences also allow for abundant natural light to flood the spaces throughout the day.
"At a time when our cities are in such significant change as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, Otter Place by Milieu provides the reassurance of good old-fashioned quality using elements of traditional construction to provide a unique residential experience for its future residents. And it’s future-proofed for post-pandemic living, with each home offering plenty of flexibility, amenity and access to nature, light and fresh air."
With construction tracking well, the collaborative trio are expecting the first crop of residents to begin calling Otter Place home this year.