Darling Point Penthouse

Darling Point, Australia

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Darling Point Penthouse

Darling Point, Australia

Firm

Christopher Polly Architect

Type

Residential › Apartment

STATUS

Built

YEAR

2011

SIZE

1000 sqft - 3000 sqft

Photos

Brett Boardman Photography (21)

The project is located within the Easthaven building designed by Ancher Mortlock & Murray in the late 1950’s. It embeds mechanisms of expansion, contraction and adaptability of space across the length and depth of a previously determined post-war plan layout, to offer a variety of unique spatial configurations.

It’s arrangement was resolved around an existing central service core, existing utilities locations and retained columns & slab core holes. A long north-south joinery device is employed as a means of unifying disparate wall alignments along the entire length of the apartment - simultaneously serving as the key threshold between public and private areas. Its planar quality is punctuated by pivoting panels, recesses and apertures that lead to a reconfigured private domain of rooms, enlarged bathroom and kitchen respectively.

Sliding and pivoting panels enable the public living area to flexibly borrow from, expand into, or contract from, the depth of the private guest room, and vice versa when required. An inserted study and sitting area permit access to alternative, contemplative views of the harbour which can be visually demarcated by a retractable curtain to flexibly contract or enlarge the length of the living volume when needed. Frameless and sliding glazing expand the interior into the terrace, improving access to sunlight, ventilation and principal harbour views. A cantilevered steel framed pergola integrates lighting and provides protection, while outdoor integrated timber storage benches enrich a covered space for sheltered enjoyment of views.