New South Wales
Fronting a major arterial road in Surry Hills & on the fringe of the city, this medium density development of 24 new apartments makes a strong & considered contribution to the streetscape.
It is appropriate in scale to its surrounding urban context & exhibits a limited palette of materials. These considerations contributed to the rare decision made by authorities to remove the two heritage (contributory) buildings to make way for this exciting project.
Designed in close collaboration with clients Camilla and Oscar Done this thoughtfully detailed and wellplanned project provides consistent & uncompromised amenity throughout. It successfully answers design challenges, whilst prioritising principles of environmentally sustainable building design. Creative solutions have been sought to address noise & sun, shielding and protecting its inhabitants whilst offering light and efficient ventilation.
The glittering tapestry of turquoise & tangerine coloured ceramic tiles animates the distinctive Elizabeth Street façade, refreshing & reenergising a once neglected part of our city.
Commendation for Residential Architecture – Multiple Housing
Off the traffic-laden main street, down a gritty service lane, and wedged between a driveway and some fire services there stands a fine gate. Entering the lobby of The Surry you feel a transition to calm; soft light bounces through a high-level opening and you see an unexpected landscape beyond.
The Jury commend Candalepas Associates for their clever detailing and considered floor planning that moderates the urban grunge of this site and creates an oasis for the residents within.
With its robust form and linear eloquence, The Surry is a refined, secluded retreat within the energy of one of Sydneys most eclectic urban villages.
Interiors are open plan and lightfilled, and an expansive landscaped rooftop with city views provides residents with both a sense of space and the connection of community.
It is a building that gives as much to the streetscape as it does to its inhabitants. A façade bathed in light and shade projects warmth and energy toward the city, and cool tranquillity on the return.
Client perspective
360 Degrees Landscape Architect, Landscape Consultant
ABE Consulting, Accessibility
Cundall, Basix / ESD / Acoustics
Defire (NSW) Pty Ltd, Fire
Elephants Foot, Waste
Erbas, Mechanical, Lighting, Electrical
John Oultram Heritage and Design, Heritage Consultant
Lawless and Meyerson, Interior Architect
Mersonn Pty Ltd, Town Planner
Taylor Thomson Whitting, Civil, Structure and Facade
Terraffic Pty Ltd, Traffic
The Australian Institute of Architects acknowledges First Nations peoples as the Traditional Custodians of the lands, waters, and skies of the continent now called Australia.
We express our gratitude to their Elders and Knowledge Holders whose wisdom, actions and knowledge have kept culture alive.
We recognise First Nations peoples as the first architects and builders. We appreciate their continuing work on Country from pre-invasion times to contemporary First Nations architects, and respect their rights to continue to care for Country.