Glebe House / Nobbs Radford Architects
Courtesy ofNobbs Radford ArchitectsArchitects:Nobbs Radford
ArchitectsLocation:Sydney NSW,AustraliaArchitect In Charge:Sean
RadfordDesign Team:Sean Radford, Alison NobbsAssistant
Architects:Trevor Black, Laura BagnatoArea:250
sqmYear:2013Photographs:Courtesy of Nobbs Radford
ArchitectsStructural Engineer:Partridge StructuralInteriors:Nobbs
Radford ArchitectsContractor:Yuncken ConstructionFrom the
architect.It was felt important from the outset that the new works
drew from the original house as a basis for investigation, concrete
as a heavy material was selected over framed construction. The new
works boldly reinterprets the structure and materiality of the
elements that make up the original Victorian era cottage. The off
form concrete draws on the solidity of the original masonry
structure whilst introducing a new materiality. The narrow openings
of the original facade are reinterpreted in similarly proportioned
forms for a new period. An emphasis on vertical openings creates an
alliance with the original fenestration.
Courtesy of Nobbs Radford ArchitectsThe project is not primarily
focused on the connection to external spaces but looks inward with
interconnections of cloistered spaces, created and selected framed
openings. The outer concrete elements contrast with the timber
elements that further define the various internal zones and
functions within the house.The depth of the rear facade creates an
interstitial threshold which is a space in itself to be occupied
and provide a sense of enclosure. The idea is to create
intermediating spaces that ground the house in relation to both its
interior and exterior.Within the house the void acts as a
centralising space via which other areas of the house
interconnect.
Courtesy of Nobbs Radford ArchitectsStructurally the house
created many demands, we wanted the stacked concrete elements of
the rear facade to appear to load at zero points at the surface of
the facade. We worked with the structural engineers over many
meetings to find a resolution that worked for all. Gratefully the
house has recently been awarded best small building at the
inaugural ACSE awards.Thermal modeling was performed on the
schematic 3D model and the use of concrete added to the thermal
performance of the building considerably to the point where double
glazing was not considered necessary.
Courtesy of Nobbs Radford ArchitectsComplementing materials of
near raw fifteen metre continuous length floor boards and a
restrained palette of black aluminium, stainless steel and oak
appear throughout the house and create a cohesive connection
between original and new. These materials were selected, partially,
so as not to compete with the ornate patterning of the original
house along with their own inherent qualities.The projects
fundamental rationale is to create a family home that recognised
the various needs of the occupiers, spaces for children and adults
with a flexibility for both retreat and engagement.
Courtesy of Nobbs Radford ArchitectsSustainabilitySignificant
sections of the house are constructed from single skin concrete,
which given its thermal mass,longevity and embodied energy as say
in comparison to steel was considered a sound choice as a building
material for the temperate climate of Sydney.
Courtesy of Nobbs Radford ArchitectsThermal modeling was
performed on the schematic 3D model and the use of concrete added
to the thermal performance of the building considerably to the
point where double glazing was not considered necessary.Transport
of concrete was from the Hanson site in Glebe less than 2km from
the site.
Second Floor PlanThe house is designed and constructed for
longevity. Aside from the materiality the use of narrow openings
with deep reveals to the rear western facade aids in reducing
direct sun in the summer months.The timber flooring material is
from a fourth generation family owned business from plantation
forests FSC and PEFC certification. The flooring is finished with
soap and lye which are inert materials with E0 organic volatile
emission.