This project, designed by MHN. Design Union, required a respectful and carefully considered approach in order to integrate an addition to a building which has its own history within the iconic environment of Bondi’s Campbell Parade.
MHNDU response to the design dilemma was to place a lightweight metal clad structure onto the roof of the existing art deco building.
The white metallic cladding, with its irregular jointing patterns, created a strong visual contrast to the rendered masonry building below.
By clearly delineating between the contemporary structure and the original building, MHNDU reinvented the penthouse with appropriate recognition of heritage.
Generous light-filled open living spaces flow onto expansive external entertaining areas with a full view of the sweep of Bondi Beach.
Strict fire regulations restricted the amount of glazing allowed, which meant a clever use of skylights, fire windows, low level glass louvres, and full height glazing in central areas, to ensure ample filtered light flooded the space.
To capitalise on the outdoor appeal of the locale, external and internal lines are purposely blurred due to the white metallic cladding with its intricately random patterning flowing onto the interior walls and ceilings.
An external blade runs horizontally over the façade, concealing downpipes and terminating at an angle to form a daybed.
The same blade cuts into the living space, creating a continuous floating fireplace joinery element.
A lightweight steel frame, clad in composite metallic façade panelling, was used to float the new structure delicately on the existing building.
Structural columns are concealed in joinery and some are clad in anodized aluminium to artfully form part of the window framing.
The result is a juxtaposing yet harmonious addition which maintains a sensitivity to its context while forming a contemporary and luxurious aesthetic.
Project Details
Completion date – 2010
Project Team
Architecture
MHN. Design Union
MHNDU represents the holistic union of Principals Brian Meyerson, Kevin Ng, and Liam Hancock, who bring their creativity, experience and technical expertise to this contemporary practice.
Their collaborative approach, experience, strategic thinking, and use of advanced technologies combined with an energetic service-driven team, results in a legacy of quality design, and practical, enduring and sustainable buildings.
Photography
Brett Boardman
Brett is a well-established commercial and architectural photographer based in Sydney.
Photo Gallery
Click on a thumbnail image to enlarge.
Design © 2020 MHN. Design Union. All Rights Reserved.| Images © 2020 Brett Boardman. All Rights Reserved.
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