Like a compendium of stories, this apparently simple multi-residential building gradually reveals a series of ideas that are both individual and unique, yet combine to create a satisfying whole. At Sydney 385, a building of 10 apartments in Balgowlah, our aim was to make exemplar infill architecture. The result is a building that optimises the virtues of its site: a sunny, urban outlook in one direction and a leafy outlook towards the Pacific Ocean in the other.
Expand ContentA skin of solid brickwork patterned with apparently random openings contains the building. The double-height openings on the terrace correspond to external double height balcony spaces: opening up towards the sky or looking down to the ground. These double height spaces are a unique spatial dynamic to the internal living spaces whilst inviting sunlight deep into the floor plate
Inside, the walls and soffits of the apartments are expressed in off-form concrete. This raw expression gives durability and unique character to the interiors whilst exposing the thermal mass to stabilise the temperatures of these AC-free cross-ventilated apartments. To maximise the visibility of this textured raw material interior spaces are arranged to flow around a central joinery-clad pod; kitchen, bathrooms and storage are contained within. This arrangement also lends a sensation of spaciousness, emphasised by lengths of track lighting running parallel to the long perimeter walls. Complemented by matt black fittings throughout and full-gloss cream joinery, this architectural palette is classically modern, differentiating the project from the white plasterboard interiors of most multi-residential developments. An intensive process of co-ordination and planning with structural and services designers was required to ensure concrete could be exposed and services concealed. A tilt-up concrete construction was used to deliver the desired finish for the required budget.
The building’s masonry lower floor levels facades are topped by a lightweight metal-clad box, set back from the street to enable expansive, sunny terraces for the two penthouse apartments.
The palette of the apartments is confident and restrained. In playful contrast, the common circulation areas are bold and bright. Here, concrete floors, soffits and walls are enlivened by joinery panels, in individual colours to distinguish each floor.
2016 AIA NSW Architecture Award Multi-Unit Residential Winner
