
A collage of three images showing different views of a modern urban home. The top left image shows the exterior of a building with a black-tiled facade, large windows, and a balcony, surrounded by greenery and a fence. The bottom left image depicts an interior space with exposed wooden beams, black cabinetry, and a kitchen island with bar stools. The right image displays a black car parked next to a wall of black glazed tiles.
Story
Where industrial heritage meets modern urban living Carter Williamson Architects have masterfully reimagined a former warehouse in Sydney, Australia, into a four-storey urban residence. The transformation is marked by a striking facade of glazed black tiles, which wrap the building in a reflective shell that shifts with light and shadows. This bold exterior sets a dramatic backdrop for the lush greenery, pocket courtyards, and a serene pond that punctuate the site. Inside, the original industrial character is preserved and celebrated. Exposed brick, steel, and timber elements are thoughtfully integrated into the home's design, creating a dialogue between the past and present. A key feature is the vertical volume of the interior, where a recycled brick wall ascends through all four levels, guiding the eye upward alongside a skylit staircase. This central void floods the home with natural light, enhancing the connection between each floor. The kitchen, a central hub between living and dining areas, is defined by matte black cabinetry and a mirrored backsplash, maintaining visual continuity with the black-tiled exterior. Large sliding glass doors open to an outdoor courtyard, where reclaimed materials from the original warehouse, such as burnt timbers and recycled bricks, are used to create a harmonious blend of indoor and outdoor spaces. Bathrooms in the home offer a refined contrast to the industrial textures, featuring light grey fan-shaped tiles and brass fixtures that add warmth and elegance. Throughout, the design maintains a balance between robust industrial elements and sophisticated modern touches, creating a unique urban home that honors its historical roots.
## Design Highlights
Glazed black tile facade that wraps the entire building Integration of original industrial materials like brick, steel, and timber Central staircase with a 12-metre void and skylight Kitchen with matte black cabinetry and mirrored backsplash Outdoor courtyard featuring reclaimed materials and a reflective pond Bathrooms with light grey tiles and brass fixtures
## Key Facts
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Sydney, Australia |
| Architect | Carter Williamson Architects |
| Year Completed | 2023 |
| Building Type | Residential |
| Materials | Brick, steel, timber, tiles |
| Outdoor Area | 30% of site |
Technical Summary
Finishes
- Exterior: Glazed black tiles wrap the facade, providing a reflective and modern appearance.
- Interior: Exposed brick walls and steel beams highlight the industrial past, while timber elements add warmth.
- Bathroom: Light grey fan-shaped tiles with brass fixtures create a refined and warm atmosphere.
Materials
- Glazed black tiles — Facade
- Brick — Interior walls and courtyard pond lining
- Steel — Structural beams and entry cladding
- Timber — Front door and interior elements
- Brass — Bathroom fixtures
Construction / Systems
- Facade system: Continuous layer of glazed black tiles wrapping the building.
- Structural system: Exposed brick walls and steel beams maintain the industrial character.
Products
- Not specified
Palette / Lighting
- Colors: Black, Grey, Brass
- Lighting: Natural light is maximized through large windows and a skylit stairwell.
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