URBAN THEATRE

solution by Andrew Donaldson Architecture & Design delivered a couple retiring to enjoy the vibrant creative scene in Sydney’s inner east a versatile apartment in which to display their library and art collection as Our clients moved to the Kings Cross area for proximity to culture, with dreams of ageing in place through quiet ref lection, cosmopolitan immersion and embracing their own creativity. Respecting the history and heritage of the 1928 Franconia building by architect Emil Sodersten, the client’s budget and desire to age in place, and the existing spatial constraints, we envisioned a single, bespoke joinery unit that links through its careful design multiple functions and requirements across multiple rooms in a single, focused design. Respecting the logic and material finishes of the architect’s original vision while delivering the brief with a contemporary spatial solution in a small area was a challenge. A number of activities had to be accommodated around the main insertion, an American white-oak timber bookshelf, display area and screening device. The relatively modest budget and the request for a high level of finish was also challenging.   Multifaceted, transformative and beautiful. The interior architecture defers to Sodersten’s masterpiece. The furniture selections and artworks enriched the architectural insertion, with fittings deferring to the interior joinery itself to form a seamless whole. The pivotal design move was the insertion of the unit in the main living area but elevating it above the floor and ‘hovering’ it below the ceiling allows the space to feel considerably larger. There is now an area for writing, digital photography and a place to display paintings, books, objects and artefacts. Some of the furniture, such as the 1950s chaise by Grant Featherston, ‘speaks’ to the curvaceous elliptical-shaped central unit in timber, which also adds a sense of warmth. Rosalie Lawler: We both wanted good, functional workspaces and ample storage for books, photography, files and craft needs. Early in the project Jérôme was hospitalised and unable to be involved. We aimed for St. Vincent’s Hospital and the architects to complete the project for his proposed return by Valentine’s Day – which was achieved. When friends first visit the comment is always ‘wow!’