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| Penthouse Living |
| Get a taste of the high life in this stunning city penthouse. |
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In the very heart of Melbourne, at the top of the well-known Manchester Unity Building, sits an amazing penthouse. Home to Steve and Janet Shepherd, this top level site was originally a tea garden where people would often visit for a Sunday afternoon dance.
The Manchester Unity Building was built in 1932 and was Melbourne's tallest building for many years. It also housed the first air conditioning unit and escalator in the city. Steve saw the rooftop first and fell in love with the "Gothic" look-alike tower, complete with internal spiral staircase. He bought it a few days later and his family lived in the tower while their penthouse home was being constructed.
The couple were originally looking for an exciting space that would capture the mood of the city. They also wanted the penthouse to be modern yet still linked to the tower and the art deco building as a whole. Both had never lived in a penthouse before, so it was a totally new experience for them.
Penthouse Living
One advantage is the amazing view that includes the City Hall, Anglican Cathedral, Botanical Gardens and many urban rooftops. Janet says there is always something different to look at. The location is convenient, with many restaurants, shops and transport located downstairs.
The main drawback is that everything has to fit in the lift or be carried up the stairs. Because of this, special considerations had to be made while furnishing the place.
Design Features
The five story tower really stands out. It contains guest rooms and also the couple's home office. (Janet and Steve operate a furniture chain called "Dare Gallery" which specialises in furniture "with a sense of fun").
The brass and glass fa‡ade has an angular shape which is also echoed in the "saw-tooth" design of the ceiling. The kitchen has a dramatic feel, using plenty of light and space. Janet says it feels as if you're on a stage when you're cooking and makes you feel very self-important.
Steve's Design Tips
1
Take your time, don't rush into deciding on your designs too quickly.
2
Use a variety of materials and finishes. Not everything has to match. Steve mixes furniture such as a 1910 wood dining table (with plastic Dare chairs), with items such as a coffee table made from an old railway station trolley. Be adventurous and have fun!
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More Info
Contact Dare Galleries at:
424 Brunswick St, Fitzroy VIC 3065,
208 Chapel St, Prahran VIC 3181.
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Disclaimer
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