Occupying the first floor of Hobart's historic Ordnance Stores, this extraordinary New York loft-style apartment at 15 Castray Esplanade blends nearly two centuries of architectural heritage with refined contemporary design. Originally built in 1837 by the Colonial architect and Civil Engineer as part of the Government Ordnance Stores, the building stands as the largest and finest stone public works facility on the New Wharf, a gateway for maritime trade and life on the Derwent River.
Over its storied life, the building has served as a post office, museum, and Supply & Tender office before becoming a raw storage space for Despard Gallery in 1997. In 2015, a collaboration with architect James Wilson of Field Labs transformed the first floor into two distinct spaces: a gallery and this remarkable residence.
The apartment embraces its industrial origins with Tasmanian gum flooring, untouched solid beams, and raw sandstone finishes. Passive heating through thick stone walls and panel heating ensures year-round comfort, while touch-panel cabinetry and custom steel benchtops in warm ochre tones add a sleek, modern edge. The elevated galley kitchen with Ilve induction oven flows into a flexible dining and living space, ideal for entertaining friends and family. Floor-to-ceiling shelving and concealed media elements maintain a clean, curated aesthetic.
The primary suite is a sanctuary of light and texture, with a deep recessed window and dual dressing zones. The ensuite features high ceilings and adjustable lighting that enhances the natural ambiance. A second bathroom, rich in ochre tiles, retains a unique piece of history, a mounted 1950s Tasmanian Government safe. The second bedroom offers generous built-in storage and sandstone-framed windows.
Entry is via a shared stairway or lift access through the gallery corridor. For added convenience, the current owners lease two carparks close by, a rare amenity in this tightly held precinct. Apartments within the Ordnance Stores are rarely offered, attracting those who seek the essence of Hobart living within the Salamanca warehouse conservation zone. This is one of the grandest and oldest loft-style apartments in Australia, a rare opportunity to own a piece of Tasmania's architectural legacy.
