Located within the changing landscape of Collingwood in inner Melbourne, Bedford by Milieu is a market-leading residential development breaking new ground by allowing purchasers to customise their home before any soil has been turned. Driven by a commitment to progressive urban design and the livability needs of the market, Bedford by Milieu follows a simple three-step system that will ensure each apartment is as individual as its occupants.

The process

1. Select your apartment With a maximum of four apartments per floor, each level has east-facing spaces ideal for early risers and west-facing layouts for those who would rather see the sunset. Which would you prefer?

2. Select your kitchen Cooking is a pleasure for many, so Milieu wants you to feel comfortable in your kitchen. Choose from options A, B or C, depending on whether you entertain while you cook or prefer culinary solitude.

3. Select bathroom, laundry and robe layout One bathroom or two? Do you frequently host guests? Perhaps you live with a housemate? Tailor the bathroom, laundry and robe to suit your individual needs with option A, B or C.

Comprising of 20 apartments across five levels, this new project is an evolution of the globally recognised Peel by Milieu development located just 500m away, continuing the collaborative pairing of DKO Architecture and interior design practice DesignOffice.

In readiness for each homeowner to put their mark on the interiors, a simple and effortless interior theme forms the base palette such as white walls and concrete ceilings, oak flooring and neutral woollen carpeting. Building on this foundation is a layer of quality surface linings and joinery. Optional extras include ceramic tiled walls, stainless steel benches and timber veneer joinery and window seats.

Jesse Linardi, lead architect and co-director of DKO Architecture, says the project deeply considers local context, drawing inspiration from the history of nearby buildings and materials.

DKO has drawn from the strong warehouse form of brick, recessed windows, staggered rooflines and integrated balconies into their design. The introduction of a garden at the centre of the site creates a visual break between the buildings while providing crossflow ventilation and access to natural light.