8 Loftus Street
A new precinct shaped by residential buildings, artisanal cafes, restaurants, salons, premium office space, activated laneways, public art and landscaping has emerged in Sydney’s Quay Quarter Lanes. As one of Quay Quarter Lane’s three luxury apartment buildings, 8 Loftus Street is an important residential component of the locale. Accomplished architecture firm Studio Bright, headed by director Mel Bright, are behind the design of this monumental building.
A mixed-use building, 8 Loftus Street is home to two levels of retail space (including arcades), in addition to 31 luxury apartments, topped by a stunning rooftop garden. Bright says one of the key challenges was deciding how 8 Loftus Street would fit quietly and sympathetically within a historic precinct. “We all felt it was vital to get the balance right, so we responded appropriately to the existing heritage buildings which are traditionally a more solid mass,” she says.
The façade of silvery-grey bricks by Austral Bricks is one of the defining features of 8 Loftus Street, which softens the presence of the building against the neighbourhood’s historic fabric.
“The grain of [the surrounding] historic city buildings has been an important influence on our building, which is a contemporary reinterpretation,” says Bright. “We’ve broken up the façade, so it’s quite layered both horizontally and vertically.”
Perforated, bronze anodized screens are a warm embrace of Sydney’s love for indoor-outdoor living, providing flexible sun shading and privacy to the apartments. The sliding and angling of the operable screens throughout the day bring a sense of drama and movement to the building’s exterior.
Landscaping by ASPECT Studios further complements the design of the building. Boasting impressive harbour views, the rooftop at 8 Loftus Street is bordered by a ribbon of lush green planting. “It was really essential that the design be considered from all sides,” adds Bright, “even from the rooftop, because there’s a lot of other buildings looking over it. We love that there’s some green being brought back into the city.”
8 Loftus Street is a valuable addition to the Quay Quarter precinct, not only as a hive of activity and engagement, but also as a place of respite from the hustle and bustle of the city.
“The smaller retail shops on the ground floor contribute to an active vibrant laneway and a place to escape the busier street networks, while the rooftop garden provides a green space and place to get away,” says Bright.
The installation of a light and sound piece on the ceiling of the retail arcade by Wiradjuri-Kamilaroi artist Jonathan Jones is another passion point for Bright. “We designed the arcade with the hope there would be a serious artwork incorporated, and Jonathan has delivered something exceptional,” she says.
Settled comfortably in its surroundings, 8 Loftus Street seamlessly fulfils its role in the Quay Quarter district, attracting passers-by to shop and dine, and inviting relocators to settle into a new luxury residence.
This project was featured in Folio: Quay Quarter Lanes, a publication by Brickworks. To download a copy, please visit www.brickworks.com.au
- Nubrik Artisan draws inspiration from Victoria’s frosty alpine environments with their palette of cool grey contemporary winter hues. This range combines a modern grey colour palette with the traditional quality and cachet found in genuine pressed brick. Suitable for both external facades that make a bold statement or as moody internal features, the Nubrik Artisan range perfectly complements modern living, style and design.
Learn about our products.
Join us at an event.
