sydney AUSTRALIA
suckerPUNCH: Describe your project.
Enter Architecture (patrick KEANE): At 150sqm, the project was modest in its footprint but sets a clear example of digitally fabricated interiors, and a prototype to see how these projects perform. In early conversations with the client, priorities were quickly realised: 3 radiating treatment rooms, a central reception area, lots of play spaces, soft furnishings like beanbags and excellent visibility - all of which contributed to the genesis for the ideas and space planning that followed.
Design sensitivity was imperative when considering the function of the space and very much influenced the final form. Having a clear understanding of the client’s needs on a day to day basis and moreover the needs of visiting patients, meant practical issues were also of high importance. The way in which the geometry circulates and unfolds not only promotes an atmosphere of calm, rest and relaxation but in severe circumstances, also prevents children from harming themselves on corners: where this space is concerned, to quote Le Corbusier “right angles are most definitely the wrong angles.”
The partnership of light, optics & colour also played a pivotal role in shaping the overall feel of the project. Indirect lighting was used to soften the space with cove lighting providing an additional calming effect. Colours play an important role in shaping our emotions and with this in mind, a fresh & neutral base pallet was chosen with bold colour injections interspersed throughout. Known for its healing properties, a fearless orange shade was chosen for the back feature wall. Soft furnishings complemented the colour scheme with playful Dinosaur design rugs and Fiocco “stocking” chairs by Busnelli.
sP: What or who influenced this project?
Enter Architecture: In direct contrast to the busy intersection at which the Centre is located in Edgecliff, the space is contemplative and restful. The project was loosely inspired by the U-shaped 1970’s Toyo Ito residence. The U shape provided “endless” contemplative and reflective geometries which soften the space, making it appear as being effortlessly “at one with itself.” The form of the U shape also allowed for greater light & visibility whilst simultaneously encouraging a stronger relationship between the inhabitants.
sP: What were you reading/listening to/watching while developing this project?
Enter Architecture: I didn’t have time to do anything. I had to work on it personally. Time was the biggest hurdle: This was designed built and handed over in 6 weeks. The building we were working in was in very bad condition. Cramped conditions: We sometimes had 15 people working in the site. My architectural office was shut down for 4 weeks to complete the project. We worked on it 7 days and sometimes 16-17 hours
sP: Whose work is currently on your radar?
Enter Architecture: UnStudio, Bjorn Utzon, Harry Seidler, Marcel Breuer. In general automotive manufacture and boat building processes locally in Sydney.
Additional credits and links:
Architect: Enter Architecture
Design Director - Patrick Keane
Designer - Johanna Doerfel
Builder: Enter Projects
William Keeler
Carpentry:
Chris Lain construction
Wall treatments:
Robert Mackenzie internal finishes
Lighting:
Will Electric
Assistants:
Noor ElGewely
Quoc Uong
David Kirkland
Client:
Annabel Stuckey
Minnd Foundation
Photography: Brett Boardman
