Common Areas & Apartments

Located in Melbourne’s vibrant Arts Precinct, Novus on Sturt marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of Build to Rent developments in the city. For Novus, this was more than just another project—it was their first Build to Rent venture, setting the tone for their business moving forward.

The stakes were high, and BOWERBIRD was entrusted with the responsibility of ensuring that every element of the design—from the furniture and styling of the common areas to the furnished studio apartments—reflected not only the modern needs of residents but also Novus’ long-term vision for Build to Rent.

Positioned in Melbourne’s cultural heart, Novus on Sturt’s proximity to art galleries, performance venues, and cultural landmarks played a defining role in the design approach. The artistic energy surrounding the site inspired a design that speaks to the creativity of the area.

BOWERBIRD’s challenge was to elevate this artistic influence into a tangible living experience—creating spaces that feel not only functional and stylish but also deeply connected to the cultural fabric of the neighbourhood.

This creative vision extended to both the furnished apartments and the common areas. From the lobby to the business hub and pool deck, the design aimed to foster a sense of community and interaction among residents.

The communal spaces were carefully curated to balance modern sophistication with comfort, incorporating rich textures, artistic accents, and refined finishes. The result is an atmosphere where residents feel both inspired by their environment and at home with one another.

As Novus’ first Build to Rent project, it was essential that the design not only reflected the character of the Arts Precinct but also captured Novus’ emerging identity in the property sector. BOWERBIRD achieved this by seamlessly integrating Novus’ brand elements into the overall design.

The bespoke furniture, designed and manufactured by BOWERBIRD, carried this brand expression through every detail, ensuring that the development stood out while maintaining a cohesive, signature style. A mix of custom-crafted furniture and select pieces from trusted suppliers added depth and variety, creating a consistent flow across the entire development.

At BOWERBIRD, we understand that a project of this scale requires more than just creative vision—it demands careful planning, coordination, and attention to detail. From the initial design concept to the final installation, we focused on ensuring that every element was thoughtfully executed to align with Novus’ vision.

The complexity of manufacturing and installing custom-designed furnishings across multiple areas required a streamlined, collaborative approach. Our priority was to deliver a cohesive and high-quality outcome, where design, functionality, and brand identity seamlessly came together.

The result is not just a place to live—it’s a carefully orchestrated symphony of design, brand identity, and community-focused layout.

The success of Novus on Sturt sets a new benchmark for Build to Rent developments. This project serves as a statement of intent for Novus—not just in terms of expanding their portfolio, but also in defining how they approach Build to Rent projects moving forward.

BOWERBIRD’s role in delivering this vision has established a new standard where creativity, practicality, and brand synergy come together to shape the future of luxury rental living. Novus on Sturt isn’t just a development—it’s a blueprint for the next generation of Build to Rent living.