Marsh Cashman Koolloos Architects have completed the Queens Park House in Sydney, Australia. The core idea of the design for this house was a relationship and conversation between new and old, between the heritage character of the existing cottage and the introduced concrete and glass structure. The cottage and it’s street prescence is maintained and refurbished. as one moves from front door to rear a mixing of the individual languages takes place at a mid transition zone where cornice meets frameless glass and timber skirting meets off form concrete stair.
On the street the first floor addition is setback beyond the ridge line respectful and sympathetic while at the same time proudly stating, modern, a contemporary style, using current technology and environmentally responsive. The house sits in a conservation area adjacent a heritage item. The choice of timber shake cladding is a direct response to this context.
To the rear of the site the ‘new’ is viewed from a laneway, again robust and proud, but still of a scale that is in keeping with the neighbouring. The shake cladding becomes concrete frame and cedar louvres continuing a theme but adding a layering and lightness to the facade.
With time the garden will grow thicker and lusher and taller and contribute at an urban scale as well as providing an oasis for the owners. the house performs well environmentally with good solar access and plenty of ventilation. The collaboration with landscape architect was a success with the clients continuing the conversation and consultancy in order to maintain and nurture their new garden. Via contemporist
