388 Barkly Street by Breathe Architecture is a development of 11 ethical apartment units developed within a 1940’s era brick warehouse. The project’s aim was to make a positive contribution to the urban realm and local neighbourhood. During the research phase, the architects further questioned what was typically absent from apartments while present in family homes. They thus asked how an apartment could become a realistic alternative to the suburban home.
The resulting interiors of the apartments were designed to exude comfort and warmth, with small everyday moments like morning benchtop coffees and French doors that open to a private terrace. Each residence also features generous storage in a way that is cleverly integrated into the design. Examples include bench seats that double as storage and mud rooms at entrances.
Throughout, the Barkly Street apartments integrate biophilic design strategies to strengthen the connection between residents and nature. This includes natural light sources, plenty of surrounding vegetation and unobstructed views to native planting as well as a sunken lush central atrium, planted light wells and operable windows that enable natural light and fresh air.
The human-centred design approach leads to a diverse series of internal spaces and qualities. The point of entry and the central atrium creates a sense of welcome that flows naturally into each subsequent space, while the internal façade of heritage brick has a rhythm that ensures a human scale with its textured, tactile appearance.
Green building technology is also key to this project, which is a fossil fuel and gas-free development powered by 100% green energy with a 30KW Plus Solar array on the roof and centralised heating and cooling. High-performance glazing and operable windows contribute to thermal comfort and further reduce energy use.
Each unit is also sourced with materials chosen for durability and a reduction in VOC off-gassing and carbon footprint. Materials include FSC-certified timber, recycled content in insulation and plasterboard, and avoiding harmfully produced elements such as chrome fittings. Mr P Studios
