Dixon & Swanson
Tantalising Tamarama – Outstanding workmanship on a residential build

Sydney’s iconic Tamarama is stunning, but proved a difficult site to fitout a partial-re-build of an old 60s apartment with extensive water views.

A neutral palette and minimalist design to showcase art, means that the eye is drawn to the detailing of the joinery within the unit. Dixon and Swanson were tasked with both building and fit-out. This meant they had greater control over the quality of the joinery as it built in their own factory in Western Sydney. Installation also required finesse, as joinery lined up perfectly to datum lines of door frames and showcased water views.

Logistically, the site created multiple problems with construction works being carried on at the same time as fit-outs in multiple units. Parking was virtually unavailable. A narrow stairwell meant hiring a barrel lift and removal of a balcony railing for materials. Dixon and Swanson’s excellent project management of the site was required to have the fitout finished in a timely manner.

Internally, weight restrictions required innovative solutions to level flooring. The seamless wall and ceiling joins with no architraves or cornices to hide behind were difficult, but old bricks in white set render meet tile and roofing in a straight line that is satisfyingly elegant. Australian made joinery built in Dixon and Swansons factory is on display throughout the unit – kitchen, bathroom vanities, and the joinery around the bed.

Overcoming several difficulties, exceptional joinery skills and a team working together created a unit which will be timeless and well loved for many years.