Project Gillies by Little Fish Property

Nestled in the leafy streets of Fairfield, Melbourne, Project Gillies is a side-by-side duplex development by Little Fish Property that proves dual living doesn’t have to mean compromise. With two distinct dwellings, each designed with its own material palette and personality, the project brings a sense of relaxed, considered living to an inner-city setting, where every detail has been thoughtfully resolved.

For Claire Kelly, Head of Projects at Little Fish Property, the inspiration was personal. A stay at a beachside property on the Mornington Peninsula planted the seed for what Project Gillies would become. The goal was to bring an element of retreat to everyday living, giving future homeowners a space that felt like a year-round vacation. A modern, contemporary, and functional style was always the plan from the outset.

What makes Project Gillies particularly striking is the intentional contrast between its two dwellings. One is grounded in a warm, textural palette; the other defined by cool, contemporary restraint — two sides of the same coin, with design elements echoed across both homes. Internal courtyards separate the front of each dwelling from the rear living space while simultaneously connecting the main living zone to the outdoors. It’s a detail Claire is especially proud of.

“It provides a sense of outdoor-indoor living, which is really important to achieve when doing a side-by-side development, as typically the only outdoor space is at the rear,” she continues.

Styling and window furnishings were also central, giving purchasers an insight into how they can live and feel in each space. Across both dwellings, ABI Interiors products play a defining role. Antique Slate tapware brings depth and moody sophistication to the darker-toned home, sitting against natural stone features, while brushed nickel tapware balances the lighter scheme with its clean, reflective quality. Mosaic tiles, curved mirrors, and white sconce lights introduce softer, more decorative touches to both bathrooms.

Little Fish Property has collaborated with ABI Interiors for several years. For Claire, it comes down to a simple philosophy: the end product must be both aesthetically pleasing and functional.

“As a developer, it is important that the end product and the consumer’s experience are not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional and practical. We achieve both with products from ABI,” she says.