A new rental-only apartment building in Fitzroy North is revolutionising the rental market while also elevating property design and styling. The project shines a spotlight on bold, emerging Australian designers and makers, all curated by internationally acclaimed stylist Emma Elizabeth, whose work has been celebrated by Vogue and Elle Decoration UK.

Elizabeth has brought together a roll call of Australia’s most exciting furniture and lighting designers to imbue Fitzroy & Co – the maiden project by private property group Salta under its Build-to-Rent (BTR) arm, Est – with warmth, depth, and personality. Located in one of Melbourne’s most sought-after inner-city suburbs, Fitzroy North, the project blends the best of contemporary living with a bespoke design approach, offering amenities akin to a chic hotel or trendy bar.

Inspired by the eclectic personality and charm of Fitzroy North, Emma Elizabeth has curated bold furnishings, including lights, chairs, and tables by Sarah Ellison, complemented by thoughtful vintage touches. These include butter-soft 1970s Post and Rail lounges and obscure vinyl records sourced from local markets. Throughout the building’s 1,000-plus square metres of resident amenity, you’ll find pieces by renowned local designers including Collingwood’s Lightly Design, Preston’s Nicole Lawrence, Melbourne artist Ben Jones, and Australian designers Elliat Rich and Tom Fereday. Established brands like Tigmi, Jardan, and Fenton & Fenton also feature prominently.

“The design intention behind Fitzroy & Co was to create a space that doesn’t feel forced, with shared areas that feel like extensions of your own apartment – places you truly want to spend time in,” says Elizabeth. “It has a deliberate ’70s nod, inspired by the era’s focus on home entertaining and bringing people together. This reflects the ethos of Salta’s Est BTR brand.”

Elizabeth was intentional in choosing unique, niche designers, showcasing a mix of local and interstate influences to provide a creative balance between old and new, reflecting the authenticity of Fitzroy North. The project also provides emerging designers the opportunity to display their work to a large audience, with many receiving their first commissions for this project.

Dowel Jones’ chairs and stools feature throughout Fitzroy & Co’s shared resident areas, which include coworking facilities, a record lounge, and a private cinema and dining room available for social gatherings. When commissioned, the founders of Dowel Jones were pleasantly surprised to learn that the building was located on the site of their former studio, where they began their business eight years ago.

“It’s great to see Australian-made products featured in a community-led residential development,” says Dowel Jones co-founder Dale Hardiman. “This site has great meaning for us, as we were just starting out when we worked there. Today, we’re celebrating our 10th anniversary.”

Elizabeth has also curated the interiors of two key display apartments within Fitzroy & Co, which offer spacious kitchens – many with island benches and large pantries – and Electrolux appliances. The styling stands apart from typical display apartments, with bold, colourful elements and chic touches, such as Fazeek glassware, Tigmi pieces, Cultiver linens, and Fink Australia vases.

The design approach encourages residents to personalise their rental homes without penalty, offering options like paint or wallpaper to make their space their own.

Salta Managing Director Sam Tarascio explains, “We saw an opportunity to elevate the rental experience with high-quality, highly contextual apartment designs and curated services that reflect the lifestyle renters are seeking. We call this residential hospitality, and it’s something we’re proud to offer through our Est platform.”

“Fitzroy & Co reflects our focus on social connection, contemporary design, and flexibility,” says Tarascio. “It allows residents to enjoy the vibrant inner-north Melbourne community while embracing the freedom to live life, their way.”

Leasing opportunities at Fitzroy & Co start from $650 per week.

For more information visit Est Rentals

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