“A distinctive building designed to suit the needs of an artist”
Relationship to site, context, presence
Addressing a peninsular site within mainstream suburbia, this house and workplace make a statement – both internally and externally - about the artist in residence. A gallery and studio space are designed to display artwork, and a circular garage (visible from the approaching street) provides a visual contrast to the neighbouring residential forms.
Relationship between concept, form, structure
A central, well-lit gallery ties the house together – separating a series of sunny living spaces and utilitarian service areas. The gallery protrudes towards the street to form an obvious point of entry, while a secondary and more discrete entrance is provided for a caregiver. The resulting lineal house form achieves a northern aspect with service areas located to the south.
Light, colour, texture, space
The quality of light throughout the house is important to the artist – particularly in the studio and gallery incorporating a high level light shelf. The indoor/outdoor BBQ area is able to be opened up with moveable walls and roof; and most living spaces have direct access to the exterior.
Structure, construction, materials, detail
The house is necessarily single storey. Exterior materials are drawn from a palette of Hebel walls, zinc sheet, and cedar boarding. A circular reflection pond extends from the BBQ area, giving prominence to this well used space and referencing the circular garage.
Environmental
Ostensibly a passive solar design, this house optimises orientation, natural daylighting, high levels of insulation and double glazing.
User satisfaction
The artist in residence had a significant involvement in the detailed design – particularly regarding issues of accessibility -
Contribution/spirit
This project demonstrates how an accessible home and workspace can not only be catered for functionally, but also aesthetically, to make a distinctive stylistic statement in an otherwise typical suburban environment.