The Courtyard Warehouse is a private residence in the shell of a former trouser factory, built in 1909, in the Inner West of Sydney. The rich and eclectic interiors pay homage to previous uses and occupants whilst sympathetically weaving in the identity of the current owners.
What was the brief?
The brief was to create a private sanctuary where the owners could relax, entertain and enjoy family life. They wanted a family friendly home but not at the expense of sophistication. The existing interior was an eclectic mix of architectural styles from classical columns to decorative friezes, mixed with stained glass windows and all contained in the shell of a warehouse. The building was in need of some big gestures to improve the comfort of the owners. Thermal performance and natural lighting was poor, amenities required upgrading and the structure needed rectification.
The design focuses on revealing the core structure, retaining key pieces of architecture and sympathetically adding a new layer to reflect the owner’s personality. Inspiration was drawn from the existing textures, patterns and colours found on site. New v-groove joinery in white and grey references the existing ceilings in the lofts. Green is picked up in large linen curtains and tiles in bathrooms pay homage to the stained glass windows. The courtyard was originally cutoff from the internal spaces with small French doors being the only connection. The interiors celebrate the courtyard, the primary source of natural light and ventilation, through elegant steel framed doors and windows.
What is the relationship of the built form to the context of the project?
The site is located within the Annandale Heritage Conservation Area. The warehouse was constructed in 1909 for a trouser factory. The project retains the original facade of the warehouse, not hinting or giving away the hidden gem that lies within.
The design celebrates the freedom of the open floor plan and exisiting architectural features worthy of retention are treated as special artefacts in the space. The warehouse is embraced and the design lets the layers of history enrich the interiors. The interiors are a fresh take within a beautiful, existing building shell.
Program resolution - how does the functional performance match the clients' brief?
A large portion of this project centred around getting the basics right. All the things that we take for granted and as a given in ‘new builds’ were readdressed. The Courtyard Warehouse presented as a beautiful shell, however the key drivers for the client to renovate were the subsiding courtyard, shifting brickwork, poor thermal thermal performance, poor natural ventilation, a leaking roof and little connection to the outdoors. Improving the performance of the warehouse was vital to get right so that the new interiors would bring as much joy aesthetically and emotionally but also physically.
What contribution does the design make to the lives of the inhabitants?
The Courtyard Warehouse interiors are distinct and dramatic and really are a hidden gem. There is a sense of playfulness, excitement, warmth and sophistication in the interiors. The textural material palette, rich with motifs is seamlessly carried throughout the large and voluminous warehouse. The fine level of detail brings a human-scale and intimacy to the warehouse interiors. The relaxed and peaceful environment is basked in natural light and provides the perfect backdrop for family activities.
How has the contribution of others helped achieve the outcome?
Working with old building stock always presents hidden challenges and lots of unknowns. It’s not really until light demolition reveals the true situation. There were vines growing in gutters and behind built-in wardrobes, amongst other issues. Typical of a building that is over one hundred years old, nothing was square or plumb and there was evidence that the external brickwork was on the move. The warehouse was feeling its age and sympathetically bringing it back to life was only possible with the dedication of a hands-on builder who was focused on finding practical solutions without compromising the design.
How effective were the decisions related to financial issues?
A lot of time, effort and budget were invested in things that you don’t even see in the Courtyard Warehouse. Rectifying shifting brickwork and a sinking courtyard and replacing a leaking roof were vital before investing in the interiors. There were lots of items that the client wanted to retain but slowly were removed due to questionable construction practice and a builder that vowed to build it better. Being a warehouse conversion, the project is not only sustainable, it’s recycled and it’s full of charm and character.
