Melbourne’s New Luxury Apartment Complex Boasts a Three-Storey Indoor Forest

One of Australia’s most prestigious architecture firms is setting out to create an indoor forest inside of a residential building in Melbourne’s CBD.

Fender Katsalidis (FK) was founded in Melbourne with a focus on architecture. Today, FK has evolved into a world-renowned design firm that takes a holistic approach to its projects.

“We seek and deliver holistic solutions in architecture, masterplanning, urban design and interiors” FK’s website explains, “solutions notable not only for their design quality, but also their civic contribution and economic mindfulness.”

This latest project is the perfect example. ‘Paragon’ at 318 Queen St in Melbourne will be a luxury residential building. Home to 227 prestige apartments, and worth $200 million according to Architecture & Design, the Paragon is one of three impressive projects that FK has delivered within the past year.

With sweeping views, lush social spaces, and astonishing amenities, there is no denying just how impressive the Paragon is. But one unique feature stands out amongst the rest: The building is home to a three-storey indoor forest, the first of its kind, which seeks to bring nature to city-dwellers.

The Indoor Forest in Melbourne’s New Luxury Apartments

While residing in Melbourne’s CBD is an undeniably urban experience, FK is changing what city-living looks like. Inspired by the city’s green spaces, the firm sought out to create one within the Paragon, and the result is an indoor forest, unlike anything we’ve ever seen in city-living.

“Conceptualised and executed by internationally acclaimed landscaper Paul Bangay, the forest features a carefully composed selection of mature trees, leafy canopies, climbing gardens, grassy spaces and tranquil water features.” (Architecture & Design,)

Thinking Green

The indoor forest isn’t the only way that FK is thinking green with the Paragon building.

The building also boasts 158 square metres of solar panelling, which will power the everyday functioning of the residential building. In addition to being more eco-friendly, the solar panels will also reduce costs for owners while doing right by the planet.

While the idea of an indoor garden is exciting for city dwellers, there is inevitable upkeep required to maintain such a spectacle. It’s somewhat reassuring to see that Paragon will be employing solar energy in maintaining this indoor fauna, otherwise, it’s easy to question just how “green” an indoor green space like this can be.

Other Amenities

In addition to the indoor forest, the Paragon hosts a wide range of amenities that push up against what apartment living traditionally looks like.

With communal living spaces throughout, the building’s residents can meet and mingle, host, and relax beyond the walls of their individual residences. Entertainment spaces, private dining rooms, a professional kitchen, theatre and library are all at the disposal of the building’s residents.

From the one-bedroom apartments to the lush penthouses with panoramic views, everything within the Paragon is crafted with the same attention to quality and detail.

“A lavish material palette of honed marble, ebonised wood and refined vertical batten wall panels surround the space,” according to Paragon’s website. “Seductive velvet and leather upholstery, oak flooring and smokey mirror finish add to the moody ambience of the design.”

Needless to say, the indoor forest isn’t the only impressive feature of the building.

If the Paragon is any indication, we can only hope that apartment dwellings will continue to evolve, as city-living continues to increase in numbers worldwide. Paragon’s indoor garden hints at a future where urban life need not be devoid of nature. And to say the results are outstanding would be an understatement.

The Paragon speaks for itself—we’ll see who follows suit.

Looking to enjoy some peace and quiet in the countryside? Check out the best Australian Agritourism for an ideal weekend (or week) away!

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