For Rob Mills, the Armadale Residence in suburban Melbourne has always been a key building, as he has lived there all his life, so he developed a deep connection with the vast interior space and began transforming it into his family home. The site, known for its character and rustic atmosphere, was converted from a warehouse. What was once a cardboard factory on the edge of a tree-lined park has now become a spacious and comfortable livable residence where Rob Mills has taken full advantage of the character of his design while making full use of the cavernous interior.

As it was a private project, it gave Rob Mills the space to design a building that truly reflected his preferences and desires, so decorating the space became a challenge. When he designs for himself, there is no frame of reference, but he is keen to make sure there is enough light and to use materials to drive strong design ideas. Also, it should be a family home, not a bachelor pad.

The house has three levels, with an apartment, sauna and garage on the ground floor, a living room in the middle and a bedroom on the upper floor. Using stone, wood, stucco, glass and metal, brass plays a big role in the design, especially in the kitchen, where it is widely and effectively used. The charm and drama of the original warehouse was central to transforming it into an interior design. The spiral staircase adds a sculptural element to the home while also providing an efficient and convenient way to travel between floors. The office has a British aesthetic, and the furniture is lush and classic, with wooden shutters that can be closed to create a centralized environment, or opened to let in natural light and keep the interior full of light.