Life imitating art

We can all list any number of buildings that, through construction or legend, have blurred the lines between architecture and art. Less common are buildings that present as works of art.

With Melbourne's iconic Arts Spire and National Gallery on its doorstep, Triptych was conceived as a larger-than-life art work, says Danny Flynn, managing director of Stable Group, development manager for the project.

"Our motivation has been to create a habitable work of art, by collaborating with some of Australia's most celebrated artists and designers."

One such collaborator, renowned artist Robert Owen, has devised what could be Australia's only titled facade, which is incorporated into the building's design, says architect Jeremy Bishop, director of Nettleton Tribe.

"Called Digital Showers', the facade takes shape through the subtle gradation of colours cascading down the exterior. Engaging art, environmentally sustainable design principals and community, Triptych challenges traditional notions of high-rise living."

It is not just the exterior that defines Triptych.

"The architects have incorporated a number of liveability concepts into the interior as well," says Bishop.

"The residential floors of Triptych have been divided into three-storey groupings to form a series of vertical villages complete with a village-green atrium.

"Providing an inclusive environment for residents has social benefits that are as important as environmental sustainability."

Between 10 and 27 apartments share each atrium, which is a communal three-storey open space. Ample natural light and ventilation is admitted via these atria, which also feature living walls.

Augmenting these private spaces is a rooftop garden on level six. Incorporating a yoga deck, 25m swimming pool and gymnasium, the mature grove gardens have been designed by Jamie Durie and his team at Patio.

"The design of the rooftop garden features luxurious planting, that complements the Zen-like spaces. Visitors to the garden are transported from a high-rise situation into a cultivated, lush environment," says Flynn.

From a sustainability point of view, Triptych establishes an environmental benchmark.

"Emphasis has been on reducing energy consumption and water usage," says Flynn.

Along with the passive engineering aspects such as natural light and ventilation Triptych also utilises water harvesting tanks on both the roof and podium. Renewable bamboo flooring has also been used throughout.

Apartments start at one bedroom plus study to four bedrooms plus study. The attention to detail that pervades every aspect of Triptych is also visible in the apartment interiors, says Flynn.

"Anticipating a high level of interest from the arts community, ceiling studs are 2.7m or 2.9m as standard, with top floor apartments featuring 4m ceilings. The expansive wall spaces are ideal for hanging large paintings."

Italian-designed Poliform kitchens feature in each of the apartments, complemented by Miele appliances.

"The three- and four-bedroom units feature galley-style kitchens with an enclosed scullery, offering residents higher levels of flexibility.

"From design to execution, Triptych exemplifies a singular approach by RI Real Estate Development Trust to the project. All parties involved have been conscientious in ensuring Triptych, along with its associated lifestyle, is truly in tune with its surroundings," says Flynn.

Contact the Triptych sales suite, 18 Kavanagh Street, Southbank, Melbourne 3006, or phone 1300 785 665. Website: www.triptychliving.com.

Story by: Trendsideas