McMahon and Nerlich architects is a boutique practice based in South Melbourne, established full time in 2013 and formalising over 15 years of collaboration between directors Rob Nerlich and Kate McMahon with a wealth of experience in housing, education and urban design both in Melbourne and London. Avenue Apartment is a contemporary insertion above existing shop-fronts in Middle Park with oblique views to South Melbourne beach. Contemporary building techniques have been explored to enable speedy contraction of the concrete plinth, and screening, louvres and sliding partitions combine to create wonderful living spaces, roof decks and vistas towards the bay. This project proposed a contemporary architectural and urban response to the shopping strip, bringing the addition forward to match the surrounding context to the street.

The Naked Architect is an initiative of Open House Melbourne, with support from the Architects Registration Board of Victoria, and in association with ArchiTeam. The Series was launched in 2017 as part of the year-round program of Open House.