Arranged around three green gardens Fig Tree Pocket is an enclave of four buildings where the architecture is simultaneously modern and classical. Created through a limited palette, coupled with an architecture of rhythm and unity, the building forms were developed through a study of passive solar design, privacy and natural cross ventilation.
Expand ContentAcross the four buildings there are a total of 165 apartments, with the majority being spacious three-bedrooms. The aim and outcome were to create bright, cross ventilated and functional apartments that received winter sun. In accordance with the masterplan for this site, the buildings’ footprint runs north-south to connect with the heritage-listed stables and a two-storey Victorian manor. To integrate the stables and manor, the new buildings step down from seven storeys to three, bringing a sense of balance to the whole.
Running the full length of all four buildings, three horizontal exposed concrete slabs are derived from and visually connect with the three key datums of the adjoining stables. Juxtaposed to this are a series of vertical polished concrete blades that rise the full height of the building and splay open to the north. The blades are sculpted at the top to fold into clerestory windows, and taper back at the base where they open onto ground floor courtyards. These walls direct long views to the north, instead of towards the apartments on the other side of the road or garden.
The masterplan required east-west orientated apartments, which are commonly hot in summer and cold in winter unless passive solar design principles are employed. Protecting the apartments from the hot summer sun and allowing the winter sun in was a priority for the design, which is without reliance on blinds or louvres. This has been achieved through the combination of deep balconies, angled solid blade walls and living room windows that are tilted to the north. This allows the lower winter sun to penetrate into the living rooms, while shading the glass from the higher summer sun.
The north and south façades have polished concrete brise soleils to reduce summer heat load and enhance visual privacy. These façades, oriented towards the adjacent heritage buildings, are intentionally calm, ordered and respectful.
The precast façades, polished to expose the local stone within, remain consistent on each building, while the colour of the balustrades, spandrels and window frames differs between buildings to subtly distinguish each as unique.
The interiors of Figtree Pocket were designed with the concept of “Tailored Simplicity” in mind. This led to finely detailed, simple interiors that complement the rigorous geometry of the architecture, while pursuing a timeless, classic aesthetic. High ceilings, quality materials and minimal detailing has delivered apartments that are sustainable, durable and have high levels of tangible amenity.
2020 Winner AIA NSW The Aaron Bolot Award Residential Architecture – Multiple Housing
2020 Winner Randwick City Urban Design Best Conservation Project
2020 Winner Randwick City Urban Design Best Urban Project
2020 Winner Randwick City Urban Design People’s Choice Award
