Try a new search >
   
 
      Slideshow      
   





Smyth Residence
by prevostweir architects

    

IN THE ARCHITECTS WORDS

Conceptual_Framework A sympathetic update of a state-of-the-art residence built in 1958 by architect GeoffreySummerhayes for the Mills family. The original - a local example of the International style - carried strong overtones of glamour, incorporating design elements and fittings ahead of its time. The philosophy was not to undertake a slavish recreation but rather revive the spirit of the original project, reinterpreted through a Barbarella 'looking-glass', every space and finish measured against the original. Public_and_Cultural_Benefits This renovation restores to prominence a disheveled Modernist residence. Designed by a significant Perth architect for an important Perth family, the new owner was encouraged to retain and renovate. Through a respectful and invigorating renovation, this architecture will last into the future. Relationship_of_Built_Form_to_Context The design context of this interior is that of the original architecture and the design pays homage throughout – the curved porte-cochere (inspired by the Istanbul Hilton) is replicated as a roof-lantern over the library. The staircase is re-imagined in white-gloss steel with floating glass treads, the structure mimicking the original. The physical context is the cliff the house once perched on, and now hunkers into. A 'concrete-bunker' basement pushes down and back into the cliff-side, creating a strong, solid space for business dealings and wine collections. Program_Resolution The brief asked for a 2008 lifestyle in a 1958 home. The structural envelope is mostly untouched (internal walls dividing the top floor give way to open-living), so for a gym and conference space the limestone below was excavated to create a 'basement'. Maintaining the spirit
 
 

of the original – ahead of its time in design and mod-cons - fixtures and finishes now include the office's pvc ceiling, a clear acrylic cellar, sleek floor finishes and a 'white-on-white' theme throughout. Integration_of_Allied_Disciplines The existing structure meant the engineers were relied upon to propose resolutions without unnecessary alteration. The builder was called upon for innovative solutions to problems inherent in such a project; interior designers aided in material selections to push the aesthetic. Cost/Value_Outcome While finances always play a major role in any project, it was recognised that this renovation was well-deserved, and any cost invested in this project would be reflected in the result The construction rate was approximately $4,840/m², a figure commensurate with the luxurious finish of the residence. Sustainability Where the building & philosophy allowed, the design accommodates sustainable elements. Passive solar-shading allows the glazed Eastern façade to open to the river; the Western façade features operable louvers and a brie-soleil; living spaces allow air transfer through voids, cutting down air-conditioning requirements. The decision to renovate rather than demolish means the embodied-energy of the original structure has not gone to waste. Response_to_Client_and_User_needs The clients' intention was to demolish and re-build. After investigation and discussion it was decided that the residence be retained and updated, maintaining the spirit of the original design. This renovation has produced a much-loved home for the owners, accommodating their lives. It is noted that Geoffrey Summerhayes has toured the renovation and informed the architects that he was overjoyed with the result.
 
DETAILS

Location
WA
Architect
prevostweir architects
Project Team
Project architect: David Weir
Project architect: Rosalie Pech Eva
Project architect: Ariane Prevost
Project architect: Laura Rossi
Design architect: Ariane Prevost
Structural consultant: Terpkos Engineers
Landscape consultant: Carlyle Landscapes
Interior designer: Christian Lyon Design
Builder: Wenham Constructions
Builder: Wenham Constructions
Original architect: Geoffrey Summerhayes
Landscape Design: Prevost Weir Architects
Photographer: Robert Frith
Photographer: Rob Frith
Photographer: Rob Frith
Entered
2009


Photographs by Robert Frith, Rob Frith & Rob Frith, text by prevostweir architects

Link directly to this award entry: http://dynamic.architecture.com.au/awards_search?option=showaward&entryno=2009068401

architecture.com.au is the website of The Royal Australian Institute of Architects