A single-level penthouse apartment, constructed as a new built form perched atop an existing commercial building.
The existing building stands alone as the only building of comparable height within its neighboring context. To capitalize on this, the design embraced the challenge of achieving an outcome that consists of zero solid walls at any point along the entire length of its perimeter.
As a result, the home sits as a glazed pavilion perched above its neighboring context with uninterrupted and un-competed views in all directions.
To achieve this large full height volumes are situated internally – inset from the glazed exterior. These volumes act as solid objects, with a simple and uniform timber paneling finish. They define spaces, contain spaces, control movement paths, and discretely contain all functional aspects and utility requirements. While intricately considered and housing a complex array of functions, these volumes offer a simple and calm appearance that the user navigates both around and within.
In its simplest form, the exterior of the penthouse addition consists of three horizontal planes. A central glazing band, sitting between solid bands of metal paneling both above and below.
The glass pavilion is a familiar form in mid-century architecture, and this design seeks to adapt the simple beauty of this model to a contemporary outcome that meets the high performance demands of modern building requirements.
Operable panels and concealed cavity sliders allow the spaces of the building to open and close as needed, giving varying levels of privacy to suit. In its most open state, the floor plan of the home offers a door-less environment that is spatially defined through the large timber volumes themselves.
Gradual transitions in floor height offer select zones of the design the ability to elevate themselves up to the common sill height of the glazed external façade – offering an immersive and uninterrupted views of the valley and hills beyond.
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