Located in Melbourne's inner south-east, Penthouse Vivace embraces a philosophy of unapologetic vibrancy, where materials don’t merely exist but perform. Designed for clients downsizing but not slowing down, the client’s appetite for boldness and playful experimentation has shaped a vision that balances intensity with refinement, creating spaces that allow for dramatism and functionality to coexist.
“We wanted a space that truly reflected our client’s vibrant attitude to life” says Amy Byrne, Interior Design Lead at Telha Clarke. “The home is at once performative and deeply liveable.”
From the sculptural Yucca Rostrata greeting arrival to the carefully layered interplay of colour texture and light, this residence is conceived as a series of curated moments. Each space a deliberate expression of personality and animation.
The entry unfolds to the wine and whiskey lounge, an intimate arrival experience where hidden high gloss bars drenched in rich colour are dramatically revealed behind unassuming joinery. Here, the narrative shifts to the front of house kitchen, where the almost 5m island wrapped in leathered granite anchors the generous entertainment space between the bar and expansive north facing terrace. Nestled within the tree canopy, the outdoor terrace genuinely feels like an extension of the living space, furnished with pieces that elevate and redefine outdoor living.
The entertaining kitchen balances grandeur and boldness with moments of restraint. Stainless steel joinery performs throughout the day, reflecting light and casting shadows as the sun transitions across the north facing balcony. This theatrical interplay of reflection and shadow that is continually in motion animates the space, while travertine stone provides the perfect backdrop of the vibrant sculptural island. The island’s cantilevered profile invites a casual dining experience, finished with custom metal stools that unify the material palette in a cohesive dialogue of light and surface.
Adjacent to the front of house kitchen is the working kitchen, fully equipped with a secondary set of appliances to cater for the demands of entertaining at a large scale. The dining space seats fourteen in sculptural Scarpa chairs, their subtle curvature and rich saddle leather reflects light throughout the day. Custom stained timber provides a warm counterpoint to the table’s dramatic scale.
Wall to wall joinery in Cipollino natural stone defines the living space, providing varied locations for art and sculpture display while discreetly concealing the television lift to maintain minimal distraction from art pieces. Furniture curation layers rich patina metals, confident colouring and pieces that naturally draw people in. The metallic Codiceicona floor lamp weaves movement into the styling, a dramatic piece that choreographs the space when in motion.
Intended to capture the client’s dynamic personality and lively character, the red travertine powder room is a moment of surprise and saturation for guests. Fitted with iconic Vola red tapware, Articolo light and warped mirror, they work together to create a sense of drama and joy.
Travertine framed thresholds transition to the primary suite, where the palette becomes restorative with glimpses of colour. The ensuite is clad in warm travertine, with feature stone plinth basins. Paired with stainless steel Vola tapware, the space feels restorative, timeless as natural light from skylights above softly streams in. All designed as a true retreat and a dressing room to match, landscape reflected inwards.
Penthouse Vivace has painted a vibrant canvas for expressing the clients’ infectious energy and appetite for life while balancing a restrained space that renders everyday living effortless.
