Winter - Australian Institute of Architects

Interior ArchitectureSponsored by The Laminex GroupThe Julius Elischer Award forInterior ArchitectureVENN16 Queen Street, PerthArchitecture PracticeMatthews ArchitectureBuilderMatera ConstructionPhotographerJoel BarbittaJury CommentsThe Venn achieves a great deal in a small space - retail, hospitality, galleryand studio spaces that occupy and revitalise turn of the century buildingstock. In doing so it has overcome many technical challenges not the leastof which are structural and fire protection. The solution involves a numberof spaces (some new, some existing) with crafted glimpses between each ofthem. The result challenges the occupant to explore and discover.The restrained and raw palette of brick concrete, steel and timber hasprovided an effective canvas on which (with the collaborative efforts ofGuyer) a curious retail space has been crafted and a new office mezzaninehas been ‘inserted’. The cleverness of folded steel beams, allowing views tothe basement studio space, and the folly in which the original staircase hasbeen preserved and extended typify the level of detail and consideration thatthe design team have applied to this site. Collectively it seems to take greatpleasure in preserving some history of the building and at the same timebuilding a new future by bringing to life uses that will provide pleasure forthe public and reward for the owners.Architecture AwardCultural Centre Amenities2 Roe Street, NorthbridgeArchitecture PracticeConiglio Ainsworth ArchitectsBuilderPalace HomesPhotographerRobert Johnson, Johnathan Trask and Coniglio Ainsworth ArchitectsJury CommentsThe refurbishing of a small public amenities block in the Cultural Precinct hasbeen done with great care and attention given to every detail. The design isrobust with all elements working together to create a unified outcome. Theuse of artwork from the neighbouring gallery gives not only a context to thework, but helps prevent vandalism. The inclusion of windows provides naturallight and gives greater safety through passive surveillance.The faceted interior is deftly handled and its continuity to the exterioraround the windows is convincingly done.51THE ARCHITECT 2012 ISSUE 002