It’s not often an apartment in the ‘Horizon’ building comes completely refitted and refurbished with such finesse. For those that have been inside, the Harry Seidler landmark is better known for its panoramic views and endearing 1990s décor.

But when the owner is a celebrated interior designer, the results can have that ‘always meant to be’ look. In Greg Natale’s case, it has helped to have his own line of rugs and carpets handy – not to mention wallpaper ranges, furniture lines, tiles and marble mosaic collections as well as a range of cushions and soft homewares.

In this building, the apartments become known by their numbers and according to Greg, “the ‘06s don’t have great bones”. But that didn’t stop him realising his design ideas. “I’m a big Harry Seidler fan and I’ve always loved the building and I love the area,” he says. “But these apartments have a pokey layout and you have to open them up.”

1406/184 Forbes Street, Darlinghurst is a unique one-bedroom 70 sqm apartment currently listed for sale with BresicWhitney

The interior was then dressed in signature Greg Natale carpet and wallpaper. The new open-plan kitchen is in galley style and shows off slabs of granite. An all-integrated fit-out features Miele and Smeg appliances.

“For me was really about creating more space and opening the apartment up to that view. It’s not a hard process at all, but being a professional does help you to see that.”

Other design-inspired touches included the in-ceiling sound and Vola tapware. Full-height pivot doors and cavity sliders add further spaciousness. At the centerpiece is a custom robe that has become a feature of its own, finished with black oak cabinetry.

“I’m inspired by this building and Harry Seidler’s work,” Greg says. “I remember being in my early 20s and always wanting to live here. I couldn’t afford it so I bought something down the road until I could.”

“The building is black and white so I wanted something monochrome. I wanted to keep it light but all the black is actually inspired by the black of the window frames.”

“It suits my signature style which is all about monochrome and black and white with pops of colour.”

On purchase, it helped to have those design ideas imagined. It meant functionality could also be addressed. The apartment now ensures every square centimetre is used for storage or living space. Nothing is wasted.

“This was different creative process to working with clients,” Greg says. “Clients usually love something you’ve done before or something they’ve seen before. Working for a client, you see things through their lens.”

The process then became more about knowing when to stop designing the dream, and just enjoy it. “This was much more difficult – working without boundaries – but that always makes you happiest.”