Matt Woods (Matt Woods Design), one of the hospitality scene’s most ingenuitive interior designers, is making waves with his latest residential project, aptly named ‘The Perfect Storm.’
Also dubbed ‘the concrete bunker’ for its deliberate use of dark rendered surfaces and rejection of ornamentation, the Camperdown apartment was conceived as an intimate, yet utilitarian environment. Inspired by Woods’ penchant for Brutalism and local warehouse vernacular, the loft-style space features a moody palette and extruded geometries to a create restrained and precise interior.
Eschewing the prolific ‘light and bright’ Sydney aesthetic, Woods has chosen to ignore the whims of trend, opting for a bold and unique approach that perfectly underscores the clients’ vision of a cave-like intimate sanctuary.
Though ‘concrete bunker’ was the clear directive, very little cement was used in the build.
With sustainability at the core of each project, Woods opted for hand-rendered finishes in dark grey paint to leave a mottled finish to resemble concrete, which covers almost every surface in the space.
“Each design decision has been rooted in a practice of sustainability, resulting in a materials palette that is environmentally responsible,” says Woods. “Aligning with the client’s pared-back brief, and remaining true to my environmental ethos, we’ve implemented a construction process to keep waste to a minimum.”
The west-facing open plan apartment features a custom kitchen and mezzanine bedroom that overlooks the light-drenched living room, counterbalanced by the dark and brooding colour palette.
“ We’ve opted to move away from the cliched ‘industrial’ vibe, for a fresh approach and site-specific take on the warehouse conversion category,” says Woods.
Elements of warmth are introduced in the form of film-faced plywood, American Oak joinery and gold-hued brass, as well as statement touches of neon in the form of a custom double-string halo LED light. The bespoke furniture selection, including the fixed custom furnishings designed by Woods himself, speaks to the anti-ornamentation of the loft aesthetic.
The incredible design has sparked high-profile interest including Hollywood star Emily Ratajkoswki, describing the space as ‘her dream apartment.’
Matt Woods is the designer behind some of Sydney’s most renowned hospitality spaces, including Bloodwood, Rabbit Hole Bar & Dining, Indu, Quarryman’s Rooftop and Devon Café.
In 2015, Woods took out a ‘Best Restaurant Design’ award at the Eat, Drink, Design Awards, and is well-known as one of Sydney’s most inventive and in-demand interior designers.
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