SORRENTO

Words by Stephen Crafti

AUGUST 2026

Set at the foot of the Hotel Sorrento and overlooking Port Phillip Bay, these apartments from the 1960s are certainly located in the ‘dress circle’ of the popular holiday resort. The owner, who had purchased a large townhouse within the development many years ago, could see the potential of investing in another two units – purchasing one on the upper level, then acquiring one below as it came onto the market.

With two 95-square-metre apartments, each one benefiting from idyllic views over the bay, the idea to combine them to create one large, almost house-size dwelling on the top two levels of the ‘60s block was an opportunity not to be missed. One of the apartments was in original condition, including exposed cream bricks separating the kitchen, while the other had been made over in the early naughties. Lucy Architecture’s design focused on creating a seamless palette between the two – with a more neutral and timeless colour scheme.

One of the first strategic moves was to insert a staircase between the two levels. And although this connects the two, it will also include a translucent steel and glass door at the top of the stairs that will allow the home to be used by a family – allowing teenage or adult children their own space (the two separate entrances will be retained so that they can easily come and go). While the former layout came with two bedrooms in each apartment, the redesign will retain the four bedrooms, whilst creating greater expanse and fluidity in the living areas. One of the few features retained are the mirrored walls at the rear of the apartments that gives the impression that the floorplate is considerably larger – reflecting and magnifying the bay.

The new kitchen, located on the top level, is like the rest of the home – restrained and refined, reflecting a level of sophistication that attracts people to Sorrento. The use of curved joinery is repeated throughout the home, including storage units in the extended living area, with cabinetry that allows the television to be concealed, making sure that the water views remain the heroic feature. Other elements, such as the concertinaed sliding doors in the living area on the lower level, disappear into cavity walls, allowing for this space to expand if needed. What was a great location will soon be transformed into a great home, one that is classic and timeless – like the nearby Hotel Sorrento.

Words by Stephen Crafti