Ballast point Architects in Balmain, stands as a testament to the architectural marvels that can emerge from unconventional thinking. While typical terrace house renovations may not garner much attention, this project surprises and captivates with its ingenious approach, reminiscent of Alice's rabbit hole. The narrative unfolds as one explores the layers of design that make this house a unique and immersive experience.
Architects Services in Annandale, just off Parramatta Road in Annandale's inner west, the house initially appears unassuming. A neat fence and hedge conceal the old front door/window, leading visitors through the original gate to a discreet new entry tucked beside the main structure. Upon entering, one is immediately drawn into a gentle vortex – a welcoming room that leads to a faceted hallway, winding around a diminishing garden to another space. This living room, akin to a magnificently oversized landing, features bookshelves and a sitting area. Beyond, up a set of steps, lies a warm and generous kitchen, complete with its own lush garden lightwell, connected to a dining area and a tiny rear garden. Each room unfolds like a chapter in a story, with each family member comfortably engaged in their activities, yet maintaining a harmonious distance.
The architectural innovation lies in the response to the site's challenges. The exceptionally long site, originally a terrace with a lean-to and a decrepit rear shed, presented a unique canvas for CO-AP Architects. Instead of opting for the conventional approach of expanding widthwise, the architects embraced an anti-logical but brilliant strategy. The new living spaces, dedicated to communal activities, were elongated and made narrower than the terrace house rooms. This decision allowed for the creation of individual outdoor spaces that complement each narrow indoor space.
In addressing the need for sunlight, the architects strategically positioned the new structure as a narrow sliver against the southern boundary, maximizing exposure to winter sun over the towering northern neighbor's wall. This thoughtful arrangement results in a warm zone during winter, where the level changes and proximity to the garden attract the clients' young children for play. To ensure continuity of daylight, a series of skylights were strategically inserted along the southern boundary, illuminating storage and work areas in each room. Limed birch ply cupboard doors and bookshelves bask in constant daylight, creating a play of shadows and warmth.
The most striking aspect of the design lies in the variety of spaces within the contiguous single-storey extension. The new wing modulates and defines three distinct garden areas, each with its unique character and relief. Ramps and steps in the floor design delineate different zones, creating a dynamic flow. Ceilings vary in height, some soaring high, others compressed to foster a cozy ambiance. Steel windows, with varying sill heights, add to the architectural diversity, some extending floor-to-ceiling and others complemented by generous timber shelves.
The original part of the house retains its historic charm, with beautiful traces of old brick openings and original fireplaces adorned with tiled hearths. The downstairs rooms include an open study and a guest suite facing the street. A modern staircase seamlessly connects the new rear wing to the main house, with glass serving as the only barrier between the stair and the upper hallway. Turning left from the upper hallway leads to an en-suite, a walk-in robe lined with birch ply, and a main bedroom facing the rear garden courtyard. Alternatively, heading towards the street reveals two spacious children's bedrooms.
The material palette chosen for the project reflects a keen aesthetic sensibility. Alternate panels of primed steel painted in dark red form the new windows, creating a striking visual contrast. The polished concrete floor, ramps, and stairs contribute precision and robustness, enhancing the informal character of the family spaces. The remaining brickwork, a relic of the house's past, retains its historic paint layers, influencing the soft pastel colors selected for adjacent cupboards. This thoughtful integration of materials earned the project a Dulux Colour Award.
Ballast Point., wise beyond his years, acknowledges the pivotal role of his Peter Maxwell in the color choices. He humorously notes the more shocked he is by her suggestions, the better they turn out in reality. The project stands as a testament to the collaborative synergy between a talented architect, an exceptionalInterior Design Inner West, and an enthusiastic client. Even in the context of a standard terrace house, this project showcases how profound richness can emerge when creativity and skill converge.
In essence, the Annandale House is not merely a physical space; it is a journey through carefully curated design elements, spatial dynamics, and a harmonious interplay of light and shadow. Each room tells a story, and the house as a whole becomes a modern-day wonder akin to Alice's rabbit. They have not just designed a residence; they have crafted an immersive experience that transcends the ordinary, turning a simple terrace into a work of architectural art.
You must be logged in to post a comment.