Apartment HF

Nestled in the inner-city suburb of Turner, Apartment HF is a thoughtful renovation of a unique two-storey apartment originally built in the 1970s. Faced with constraints of existing solid brick walls that made relocating services nearly impossible and a very tight budget and, MYMYMY embraced a light-touch approach to transform this space into a functional and timeless home for a young family.

The design balances the apartment’s original character with mid-century influences, reflecting the clients’ vision of a home that feels contemporary while retaining the charm of its era. Existing high-quality features, such as the timber staircase and double-height living space, were carefully refurbished and celebrated. The kitchen was extended and reoriented to create a stronger connection to the living areas, improving flow and functionality.

This light-touch approach was not only cost-effective but also a sustainable choice. By retaining and enhancing much of the existing structure and finishes, the design minimised material waste and reduced the environmental impact of the renovation. Strategic wall finishes were used to conceal new services and lighting seamlessly, preserving the integrity of the original brick construction. Wet areas were refurbished rather than reconfigured, further contributing to a resource-conscious approach.

Designed by correspondence while the clients were based overseas, the renovation was completed just before their return to Canberra. Apartment HF is now a warm, open, and practical space that combines the best of its 1970s roots with the elegance of mid-century design, creating a home that is both timeless and uniquely theirs.