Bondi Penthouse

The fundamental architectural proposition explored in this project was to strategically integrate an addition to a building which has its own history and place within the iconic environment of Campbell Parade. The design response was to place a lightweight metal clad structure onto the roof of the existing “Art Deco” building. The white pristine metallic cladding with its irregular jointing patterns create a strong visual contrast to the rendered masonry building below. As a formal gesture, the project is an exercise of clear delineation between the contemporary new structure and the old building.

Generous light filled open living spaces flow onto expansive external entertaining areas with a full view of the beach and the sweep of Bondi Beach. 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 was required, ensuring filtered light throughout. External and internal lines are blurred due to the white metallic cladding with its intricate random patterning flowing onto the interior walls and ceilings.

An external blade runs horizontally on the facade concealing the downpipes and terminating at an angle to form a daybed. This same blade cuts into the living space creating a continuous floating joinery element. A lightweight steel frame was used to maintain the structural integrity of the existing building, with the steel frame clad with a composite metallic facade panelling. Structural columns are concealed in joinery and some are clad in anodized aluminium to form part of the window framing.

The result is a finely integrated addition that maintains a sensitivity to its context while displaying a contemporary and elegant aesthetic.