Newtown Terrace
2009
Newtown, NSW
In this century, more than any preceding it, we must recognise the potential of the resources already expended in our built environment. This project is part retread, part replacement. Functional parts are reworked, others replaced. The whole retained, enhanced and given another life.
Our clients asked for honest expression of materials, light, and functionality.
A single sculptural staircase weaves together the three levels, from a heavy concrete base to a luminous platform of steel and glass.
In order to suit the living patterns of a young family with two small children, the lower level is now a light, open, continuous living platform. Utilities are set to one side and sheathed in glass. Raw concrete/ timber/ steel and glass provide a distinct feel to each level.
Aside from a single glass sheet that replaces the original tiled front porch; the building skin and its relationship to the street and rear lane, remain.
Detailing and material expression is direct, new and old clear. Aside from the front portion of the basement, which is hollowed out for the kitchen, all rooms are left intact. The 19th century terrace and later useful interventions remain.
Bespoke "black" steel hardware, door jambs, stair treads, and handrails clearly evidence their on-site fabrication. Hardwood joists from the existing terrace are reused in new joinery. The form-ply from construction of concrete elements has been reworked into textured door panels for the cellar.
Natural and raw materials, "black" steel, hardwood and glass, requiring little or no surface finish are used throughout. Components such as the stainless steel stair rigging and hardware for the glass walls were selected for superior quality. Each element is designed and built to last, reducing future waste.
Project Team:
Sam Crawford, Leanne Borg, Hernan Alvarez, Lionel Teh,
Consultants:
Landscape design: Spirit Level
Structural Engineer: Kevin Mongey SDA
Builder: Tricon Constructions
Council: City of Sydney
Photography: Brett Boardman