A prominent industrial landmark in Collingwood is being transformed into luxury apartments, with $35 million being spent to revitalise the Islington Silos.
The former grain storehouse will become 48 apartments. The floor plan spans four cylindrical zones per apartment, with two apartments per level.
Maintaining the integrity of the existing silo building was a key focus for Map Architecture and Design, who have preserved the silos structure and maintained the original facade of the heritage listed James Hood & Co. Malt Store entrance, which has been a part of Collingwood’s history since 1878.
“We were conscious of limiting external embellishments to ensure minimal interference with the silo form and enhance the natural rawness of the heritage listed concrete exterior,” says Renato Picciani of Map Architecture and Design.
“The Islington Silos will make a defining contribution to the emergence of Collingwood as a highly coveted residential locale. Our vision was to create a development that is innovative and has landmark qualities not just because of its visibility and historical significance, but also because of its architectural excellence,” he adds.
Two glass penthouses positioned at the crown of the silos ae designed to give the illusion that they are floating above the existing silo structure.
Interiors by Eades & Bergman have been designed to retain the industrial warehouse feel of the existing building, whilst also providing a fresh, contemporary aesthetic.
“We were inspired by the urban surroundings of the silos and emphasised this through the use of layered raw materials and textures. We wanted to respect the buildings past whilst bringing it back to a sophisticated, youthful new life.” says Wendy Bergman of Eades & Bergman.
