Hunter St_
The redevelopment of 16A hunter St is seen as a chance for interpretation as opposed to duplication
The site sits within a mixed urban context (with mixed and varied programme.) of varying different programs.
Our response is one that assumes integration within this fabric without the need for straight duplication of form and/or planning.
The building takes on a representational role. The corrugated sheet profiles pay reference to the "industrial" and working class, the second floor forms to the west abstract local hipped roof forms and acknowledge the "saw tooth" typology to the east.
We acknowledge the reference to Jeffrey Smarts "the Directors" through form (sign) and color implementation. Numbers appear embedded in the facade. The image is about an urban landscape, and the ordinary.
We see these as "another Australian layer".
The big picture planning acknowledges the terraces to Hunter St through articulation and the wider typology to Valiant St.
Our buildings are not interested in overlooking adjoining, rather engaging with its neighbours and providing views into itself for its occupants. (whilst also challenging.)
We accept that the building is not two dimensional and we contradict the elevation. The corner is tested also as part of this dialogue. How does a building turn a corner ?
(Our building accepts that a loss of programme between building reduces visual bulk to Hunter St.) take this out not sure wot u r trying to say
At first site the new building seems to evoke an image of unfamiliarity, or of being alien. However as one looks closer the forms, the materials, and the planning, one recognises the familiar language of the inner city suburbs.
We accept that there may be those that disagree with our proposition, but we ask them to look beyond the skin and accept the substance. For if we have freedom of speech, freedom to wear what we like, freedom to style our hair as we please, should we not have freedom to live in what we want ?
Ultimately we hope for dwellings which are nice to live in and around – in 2004.