NoMad: A Revitalised Industrial Haven by Alexander &CO.

Interiors

24 Oct

NoMad, by Alexander &CO. is a juxtaposition of design elements – the serene and gallery-like interior is in a repurposed industrial space, in Sydney’s Surry Hills – filled with sculptural elements and a curation of sculptures and artwork.

Words: Hande Renshaw I Photography: Anson Smart I I Editorial Styling: Claire Delmar I Principle Architect: Jeremy Bull I Interior Design Team: Sophie Harris, Carolyn Schmidt & Mengxi Deng

*Photo:* *Anson Smart. Editorial Styling:* *Claire Delmar*

Alexander &CO. has created a sense of openness throughout, whilst also creating overlaid functionality, intimacy and connection. *Photo:* *Anson Smart. Editorial Styling:* *Claire Delmar*

The rooms feel atmospheric, calming, and sculptural. *Photo:* *Anson Smart. Editorial Styling:* *Claire Delmar*

Predominantly featuring neutral hues, the foundation of the rooms establishes a cohesive warmth, with autumn-inspired colours blending with luxurious leather, linen, and sleek metallic accents throughout the home. *Photo:* *Anson Smart. Editorial Styling:* *Claire Delmar*

‘Our client approached us with the brief to create an urban sanctuary. They wished for the apartment to bring calm, quiet and curation to their professional lives.’ *Photo:* *Anson Smart. Editorial Styling:* *Claire Delmar*

Situated within the vibrant neighbourhood of Surry Hills, in Sydney, NoMad stands as a testament to the transformative power of design. Housed within the podium of a low-rise tower, Alexander &CO. has breathed new life into what was once an industrial storage, then commercial office space, and finally an adapted apartment.

‘Our clients purchased the home to provide for their city sanctuary. The structural envelope possessed a beautiful scale reminiscent of its industrial heritage, however had did not have the amenity for habitation as an apartment,’ says Alexander &CO.

Desiring to craft their own urban sanctuary, the homeowners recognised the potential of the building due to its central location. In keeping with this legacy, the industrial building design offers a sturdy foundation for the daily functions of the home, while new additions introduce texture for a more welcoming ambiance. Complementing the existing windows, smooth plaster walls blend with mosaic tiles and curved cabinetry and countertop elements. These unconventional design choices suggest fluidity in the layout and enhance the sense of movement, imparting a touch of femininity that is heightened through the use of blush tones.

The building is concrete framed with concrete slabs separating levels, is fenestrated with traditional steel frame industrial windows and resides within the podium of the tower. ‘Our project involved the de-fit and replanning of the apartment. We remediated the existing structural chassis and repositioned the apartments planning, and then completed an interior fit-out including new finishes, services, lighting, and furnishing.’

Through thoughtful consideration of spatial flow and functionality, NoMad evolved into a space that seamlessly blends form with function. The interior spaces were carefully reimagined, making way for a more cohesive and versatile layout.

The key element in the incredible transformation was the repositioning of the apartment's planning. At the conclusion of the project, the outcome is a three-bedroom, two-bathroom apartment featuring a new kitchen, laundry area, and storage space. The overall atmosphere will be revitalised, with a narrative that not only commemorates but also redefines its historical significance

The building's structural framework has been renovated, and the lighting and furnishings have been created to infuse the apartment with a gallery-like spaciousness. Floor-length curtains both add a touch of coziness and ensure privacy, while concrete benches in both the kitchen and bathroom areas introduce a sculptural and artistic dimension to the otherwise minimalist interiors.

With the replanning complete, the project team turned their attention to the interior fit-out. Every detail was carefully considered, from the selection of new finishes to the installation of state-of-the-art services.

Surry Hills has gained a revitalised gem, one that embodies the spirit of innovation and rebirth. NoMad serves as a testament to the transformative power of design, showcasing what can be achieved when creative vision is paired with a deep understanding of a building's potential. With its revitalised identity, the home invites occupants to embrace its charm and authenticity, making it a true treasure in the heart of the inner city.

‘Although [our clients] accepted the project would be an intervention into much of the existing fabric, they were clear to retain the charm of the gallery-esque proportion and ambience of the piet-a-terre.’ *Photo:* *Anson Smart. Editorial Styling:* *Claire Delmar*

Lighting was key, and white space was cherished in the redesign. *Photo:* *Anson Smart. Editorial Styling:* *Claire Delmar*

As a contemporary pied-à-terre, the generous internal volume is well utilised with multiple spaces for more intimate settings. *Photo:* *Anson Smart. Editorial Styling:* *Claire Delmar*

At the conclusion of the project the result was a three bedroom and two bathroom apartment. *Photo:* *Anson Smart. Editorial Styling:* *Claire Delmar*

“Our client approached us with the brief to create an urban sanctuary. They wished for the apartment to bring calm, quiet and curation to their professional lives.”

— Alexander &CO.

Blush tones and organic forms in one of the bathroom spaces. *Photo:* *Anson Smart. Editorial Styling:* *Claire Delmar*

Design details include sculptural forms throughout. *Photo:* *Anson Smart. Editorial Styling:* *Claire Delmar*

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