Loft in Sydney by Killing Matt Woods
Redesigned in 2018 by Killing Matt Woods, Loft in Sydney is a minimalist loft apartment located in Camperdown, Sydney, Australia.
About Loft in Sydney
A Minimalist Urban Sanctuary
In Camperdown, a couple passionately envisioned a minimalist urban retreat. To match their simple lifestyle, they eagerly aimed to transform a warehouse. Both working in design professions, they earnestly craved a clutter-free, visually clean space. Consequently, this desire birthed an interior resembling a “concrete bunker”, deeply influenced by the designer’s undeniable love for Brutalist architecture.
Celebrating Industrial Elegance
Emphatically focused on a geometric, stripped-back design, the space beautifully honors its industrial origins. The west-facing apartment, for instance, boasts a meticulously tailored kitchen and an overlooking mezzanine bedroom. Furthermore, abundant light streams through a towering glazed wall, effectively offsetting the deliberately moody ambiance. Every feature, from fluted kitchen cabinets to curved ceilings, exudes a raw concrete aura. Yet, amidst this, warm “mid-century” touches punctuate the space: film-faced plywood, American Oak joinery, brass highlights, and iconic lighting. Additionally, all furniture, with its geometric designs and subdued tones, reinforces this overarching vision.
Beyond Typical Warehouse Conversions
Actively eschewing typical “industrial” and “Sydney” design tropes, this design confidently presents a fresh perspective. By seamlessly fusing client desires with a bold design, it yielded a space both utilitarian and intimate. Moreover, every decision prioritized sustainability, culminating in an eco-friendly materials palette. For instance, VOC-free finishes, a strict use of FSC timber, and limited chrome and cement usage underscore a commitment to the environment.
Innovation and Sustainability in Design
While many are easily lured by established conversion designs, this designer charted a distinct path. As a result, this project radiantly showcases design innovation, notably evident in the artful simplification of functional elements. Contrary to the concrete-centric brief, minimal cement sculpted this creation. Glass Reinforced Cement (GRC), lighter than traditional concrete and containing less cement, became pivotal. Moreover, through the application of French Wash Porter’s Paint, a concrete finish illusion was masterfully achieved. Ultimately, this space stands as a testament to what creativity, when coupled with constraint, can truly achieve.
Photography by Kat Lu
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- by Matt Watts
