Refined by Design: Phoenix in the Denman Project by Orbis Constructions and Nala Design

Orbis Constructions and Nala Design—led by director Joel Ryan and interior designer Nala Ryan—are known for creating homes that prioritise craftsmanship, longevity and a deep connection to their natural surroundings. Their past collaboration on the Sunhill Project exemplified this shared ethos, with Phoenix tapware, showers and accessories thoughtfully specified throughout. The benevolence of the Sunhill Project was found in the tone and texture of the surfaces used and the connectivity between the outdoor and indoor spaces. These were highlighted using design elements that brought small, unexpected moments around every corner. Phoenix was used as one of these design elements, never underestimating the importance of function combined with style. That trusted relationship between Joel and Nala and Phoenix continues in their latest project, Denman Avenue.

The Denman Project by Orbis Constructions and Nala Design merges the use of enduring materials and a deep connection to nature.

Tucked into a lush pocket of Glen Iris, along the tranquil banks of Ferndale Creek, the Denman Project is a masterclass in the craftsmanship that Joel and Nala are now renowned for, with the project merging the use of enduring materials and a deep connection to nature. It’s a home that feels both grounded and elevated—where every element has been carefully considered to create a sense of calm and timeless beauty.

Phoenix is proud to have been specified throughout this exceptional residence, with our award-winning tapware, showers and accessories enhancing each space through our Refined by Design ethos.

The material palette is robust yet warm—solid off-form concrete, hand-laid recycled bricks, and glacial oak cladding—all selected to harmonise with the surrounding bushland. Inside, the interiors, designed by Nala, carry the same thoughtful restraint. The spaces unfold softly, with natural light, textural finishes and a quiet palette that exudes serenity.

“There’s this magic in the way the spaces unfold—soft light, beautiful materials, and a real sense of tranquility that follows through every room,” says Joel. “That design ethos carries through to every detail, and that’s where Phoenix comes in.”

The Ormond Twin Shower teams beautifully with the Nuage Wall Basin / Bath Mixer Set in Brushed Carbon

Award-Winning, Melbourne-Designed Mixers and Showers.

Phoenix was engaged to supply tapware, showers and accessories throughout the Denman Project, aligning with the build’s commitment to innovation, beauty and longevity.

“Phoenix creates bathroom and kitchen fittings through refined Australian design,” says Alex Tomlinson, Design Engineer at Phoenix. “For over 35 years, we’ve been delivering quality, innovation, and precision through our products, designed right here in Melbourne.”

The Nuage Basin / Bath Wall Mixer Set in Brushed Nickel

Central to the project is the Nuage collection, a suite of sculptural, award-winning mixers that blur the line between art and engineering. With its soft, organic curves, Nuage perfectly echoes the natural, calming interior language of the home.

“Nuage has received multiple international design accolades, including an iF Design Award and both an International and Australian Good Design Award,” says Tomlinson. “It’s a true reflection of our Refined by Design philosophy.”

The collection also holds a deeper narrative. Inspired by Phoenix Design Lead Ban Liu’s visit to Taiwan’s Seven Star Lake, Nuage’s design draws from smooth pebbles, shifting water, and personal memory—elements that shape its fluid, harmonious form.

Technology Meets Tranquility

The home also features Ormond showers fitted with LuxeXP™ technology, designed to elevate the everyday with innovation beneath the surface. LuxeXP™ combines pressure swirl atomiser nozzles with Tesla valves to deliver an enveloping, rain-like cascade.

Recognised with a 2023 Red Dot Design Award, the Ormond shower collection exemplifies how Phoenix continues to push the boundaries of form, function and user experience.

Elevated Functionality in Hard Working Spaces

In the kitchens, laundries, multi-purpose basement rooms and butler’s pantries, functionality meets refined design with the inclusion of Phoenix 5000 Series single and double bowl sinks in a sleek Matte Black finish. These have been paired with high-performance sink mixers, including the Prize Sink Mixer with its flexible coil hose and the Blix Sink Mixer featuring a rubber flexible hose—both offering practicality without compromising on style. Complemented by Phoenix sink accessories such as stainless steel colanders and roller mats, each space is transformed into a highly functional workstation, enhancing the day-to-day usability of the home while maintaining a cohesive, design-led aesthetic.

The Prize Sink Mixer in Brushed Nickel and the 5000 Series Double Bowl Sink in Matte Black.

The Blix Sink Mixer in Brushed Carbon with the 5000 Series Double Bowl Sink in Matte Black

The inclusion of Phoenix Vertical Heated Towel Rails and Heated Towel Ladders adds a layer of everyday luxury to the bathrooms, offering both warmth and functionality. With their sleek, minimal design, they elevate the space while ensuring towels are always warm, dry, and within easy reach.

Phoenix Heated Triple Round Towel Rail in Brushed Nickel, with the Rail Hooks for added functionality.

From the thoughtful architectural detailing to the emotionally resonant design inspiration, Denman Avenue is more than a build—it’s a lived experience. Phoenix is honoured to be part of a project that so clearly embodies our mission: Refined by Design.

The Denman Project
Builder – Orbis Constructions
Interior Design – Nala Design
Styling – Arch Melbourne
Video  – Flip Films
Photography – Spacecraft