The Riley is a boutique development in Darlinghurst, Sydney designed by architecture firm SJB to provide an inner city oasis to the residents. Formerly a mechanic’s workshop, this unique warehouse conversion project combines understated luxury with the luscious foliage of the green wall to meet the minimalist design objectives of the architect as well as preserve the original character of the building. Offering four luxury apartments, the Riley was developed by Freehold Capital and built by Impero Constructions.
A design highlight of the project is a light well encompassing a vertical garden that runs the full height of the building and enables daylight to enter all three levels of the warehouse. According to SJB, the light well gives a sense of transparency across the floor plates and enables cross flow ventilation.
Floorboards from Mafi Timber Flooring in Oak Molto Brushed Deep White Oil were specifically chosen by SJB for their brilliant appearance and natural finish. Chiaroscuro, described as the effect of contrasted light and shadow, is seen in the use of crisp black veneer on the kitchen cabinetry to contrast the pale timber creating a soothing expanse.
The Mafi Deep White Oil finish achieves an incredibly light surface without the use of chemicals, paints or stains. Characteristic of the avant-garde Oak Molto range, these handcrafted Mafi planks come in different widths depending on the availability of raw material.
Mafi planks were also uniquely used on the walls with the matte surface and grain of the timber amplified by the light streaming into the space.
Photography by Felix Forest
