Joy and surprise … two words which don’t receive enough attention in our architectural imagination. But, if you ask the Director of one of Australia’s most innovative contemporary architectural firms – SJB – “joy and surprise activates places, and is […] central to inspiring architecture”.

Located in the heart of Melbourne’s historic Fitzroy Street in St Kilda, 181 Fitzroy Apartments is a pointed example of why we should be infusing joy and surprise into our spaces. As the latest brainchild of SJB, the project joins a staggering portfolio across Melbourne’s suburbs including the SAINT complex and 30 Esplanade, leaving an indelible mark on the personality of Victoria’s architectural history. As Michael Bialek, (Director of SJB) puts it, 181 Fitzroy “responds to the eclectic context” of its surroundings to “take full advantage of the spectacular, uninterrupted views that set this development apart”.

Perched in between Albert Park, Melbourne CBD and Port Philip Bay, 181 Fitzroy’s views are anything but understated. Sweeping vistas in every direction encircle the complex, drawing in the diverse character of the locale. 181 Fitzroy’s vast views, however, are not an exercise of distancing the building from its surroundings, but rather to engage with Melbourne’s vibrant and culturally diverse community.

And yet, if you aren’t going to be distracted by the incredible city views available, you will definitely be finding yourself intoxicated by the views underfoot.

Throughout the development, ‘forest to floor’ timber interiors accentuate residential spaces with an understated elegance. Such interior finishes are a characteristic touch from the award-winning practices of The Carr Design Group and SJB, the latter of whom recently took home the gold for design prowess at WAF, along with 2016’s IDEA Awards for mixed residential and work-purposed properties.

From forest-to-floor-to-181-Fitzroy, the Premium Oak range from Premium Floors heavily features within the residential sanctums of 181 Fitzroy. A custom coloured board, in two widths, was custom designed for this project, create a bright, airy and classically warm domestic atmosphere in a spirited juxtaposition to the light-coloured façade panels that flank the exteriors.

Each individual plank is crafted from Premium Floors’ own Accent grade of European Oak and is treated with a high quality European lacquer. Such combinations of raw material and custom finishes are as aesthetically-pleasing as they are forgivingly-considerate. Premium Oak’s European lacquer withstands resistance to scratching, wear and stains, whilst the matte finish creates a classic, timeless look.

Furthermore, Premium Oak boasts a strong and stable hardwood core, creating a flooring solution which is ready to brave resident after resident.

It absolutely goes without saying, the Premium Oak range from Premium Floors’ lasting effect is classically ‘Melbournian’ – refined, artistic and cultured, however it also retains a sense of pervasive and friendly warmth.