Engrained in the bustling and diverse suburb of Collingwood, Bedford by Milieu is a market-leading residential development driven by customisation and context. Comprising of 20 apartments across five levels, Bedford by Milieu draws inspiration from the distinct character of Collingwood Its well-preserved industrial heritage and interplay of old and new architecture drives a language of considered duality – heavy and light, rough and smooth.

The architecture’s podium of weighty masonry references Collingwood’s industrial warehousing origins, while the neighbourhood’s staggered rooflines are reinterpreted as a stepped expression of glazed curtain walls at high level, which embrace new opportunities for views and light. The fenestration of window and balcony openings, the setbacks and the materials, are all crafted to address the street and to ensure amenity to the neighbouring properties.

Internally, Bedford’s customisable approach to planning reflects Milieu’s longstanding commitment to the owner-occupier market, for which inner-suburban liveability is paramount. With an understanding that each buyer has different preferences, priorities and needs within an 82sqm, two-bedroom apartment, the design team theorised a new framework that allows for personal choice within the layout.

Each apartment footprint in the podium is identical but purchasers can plug and play between three kitchen arrangements and three combinations of bathroom, laundry and robe to suit their personal needs. These options flow through to impact storage provision, circulation and privacy, resulting in highly individual apartment designs. This new level of customisation gives power back to the residents.

With flexibility and amenity at its core, the project confidently addresses the needs of the local market, resulting in an offer with integrity and endurance. Bedford Street is unpretentious, unassuming and authentic. It’s the outcome of rational and considerate design that reflects an ongoing dialogue between people and place to enhance the everyday lives of its occupants.