Opposite Lock FWD Retail & Showroom

Garbutt, Australia

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Opposite Lock FWD Retail & Showroom

Garbutt, Australia

Firm

Guymer Bailey Architects

Type

Commercial › Retail

STATUS

Built

YEAR

2011

Photos

Guymer Bailey Architects (2), Phil Jackson Architect (1)

The Opposite Lock brand is well known in the 4WD industry; therefore, providing Guymer Bailey with an exciting architectural opportunity to create a showroom to promote the brand and exhibit the Opposite Lock equipment. The site occupies a fast developing area of Townsville, surrounded by motor dealerships and a substantial homemaker centre opposite, all competing for recognition. Guymer Bailey consequently created a simple, strong building form characterized by a sense of adventure with a rugged outdoors focus that typifies the 4WD experience. This adventure is effectively crowned by a simple folded roof form with an angular nature linking it to the ground plane at the northern and southern ends of the building. Profiled metal roof sheeting with a deep pan was selected, and wrapped over the building to maintain the rugged outdoor character, while the soffit of plywood accentuates the folded nature of the roof, while also introducing warmth to the retail space. For the comfort of potential clientele and ongoing operational business, a large overhang to the north-west elevation, insulation, and the selection of thermally efficient glazing reduce the heat of the afternoon sun, while allowing visitors clear views from the street to the showroom. Other environmental features include the collection and distribution of rainwater for reuse for toilet flushing and vehicle wash-down. To further accentuate the angular nature of the form, and its easy relation to the landscape, visual lines over the roof plane have been added to mimic the tracks left by the 4WDs. Another creative idea used to enhance the design involves a large Danpalon display screen to the front elevation that portrays a folded map that usually typifies adventure planning. This screen, which receives the western sun, allows filtered light to enter the building, while also introducing color and vibrancy into the retail space.