Archetype Research

Composition & Spatial Organization:

The building piles are set back from the facade giving the illusion that the building is floating above the site; the only visible connection between the building and the ground below is a continuous rendered blockwork plinth below living area and two stair cases off the main terrace. The first stair is a rather inconspicuous timber tread stair that almost blends into the elevation. The second, a monolith of naturally cast in-situ concrete, sits rather uncomfortably against the soft, weathered timber façade.

The Southern elevation has a very distinct sense of depth. The slender apertures along the external deck, accentuated by large weathered timber downturns augmented by the Architects desire to physically divide the living & sleeping amenities. A stepped threshold links to the two bodies of building together along with the continuation of the scillion roof. The opposite can be said for the Northern façade, cubicle expressions sit proud of the façade with full height, slim windows to the sides set back from the façade which further accentuates these expressions. Full height sliding glass doors to the East & West elevations are again setback and open up onto balconies; the unobtrusive balustrades allow for uninterrupted views to the surrounding garden.

The main entrance off the external deck serves directly into the open plan kitchen & dining amenity that joins the raised living area with its full height glazed end wall encompassing the views beyond. The sleeping and bathing amenity is completely detached from the main body of the house, divided further by an intermediate study. The two bedrooms sit either side of the bathroom allowing for equal access. The external deck is left completely open, undisturbed by balustrades. Shade is provided by a retractable sun shade that once fully extended provides a continuous join between the two building bodies.

The Building Structure:

Predominantly timber framed construction with double skin external walls raised upon concrete stumps. The double skin external wall is made up of undressed cedar lining board 3, with weathered timber sheathing which promotes the sense of depth across the elevations. Rendered masonry, cast in-situ concrete pillars along with concealed epoxy finished steelwork provide structural stability whilst providing a break between the timber and the gound.

Building Materials and How They Contribute to Purpose & Structure:

The building presents itself as very rectilinear; acute right angles surround the building and the vertical sheathing further accentuates this perspective with its relentless repetition. However, the very use of timber itself and its contrasting finishes softens this perspective. This then coupled with the scillion roof, somehow abates the rectilinear vernacular with great effect. The simplicity of timber construction detailing and the substantial stepping of the form give the building a very modest sense of volume and a great sense of balance within the articulation that blends into the enveloping environment.

Building Styling:

The building vernacular is typical of Australian beach house design along with its use of natural materials. The design is functional and purposeful yet retains an unperturbed, almost informal manner that somehow feels decidedly resolute in its conception. The external decking is located in the heart of the building, a place of relaxation and contemplation accessed from both building bodies, all points lead to the decking area. Synonymous with Australian architecture also is the raising of buildings which not only maximizes cross ventilation but also raises perishable materials such as timber off the ground. It has been done to maximum effect in this building, making the building seem to hover above its environment.

Building Detailing:

The level of detailing is intentionally simple so that “the local builder could construct it” 4. The simple detailing of the exposed roof flashing for instance seems to better serve the building and its purpose of being a beach house: informal & relaxed.

The Buildings Relationship with Other Works of John Wardle:

A resounding element in John Wardle’s residential projects is the notion of separating the living amenities, dividing the building itself so that each body of the building has a specific purpose to fulfill. Other aspects of John Wardle’s designs clearly present themselves in other projects such as the cantilevered living amenity and similar expressions in the façade found in Surf Coast Beach House & Flinders House both 2000-03.