Image Credit : Michael Nicholson
Project Overview
Peter Stutchbury Architecture has transformed an early 20th century hospital in Sydney's inner east, into a stunning creative arts space.
Project Commissioner
Project Creator
Peter Stutchbury Architecture / Design 5
Project Brief
Occupying the former nurses quarters of the three-story Esme Cahill Building, the centre takes full advantage of the unique architecture of the structure. Incorporating features such as office studios, exhibition spaces and indoor and outdoor areas for hire, the centre is truly a place for the entire community.
The most jaw-dropping feature of the Joynton Avenue Creative Centre is the series of timber-lined archways which protrude from the front of the building. These archways actually extend from the interior arches of the structure, creating a unique feature extending from internal areas to external.
Project Innovation/Need
The buildings were originally the nurses quarters and operating block of the South Sydney Hospital. Built in 1936 and 1913 respectively, by 2000 they were derelict and abandoned. Peter Stutchbury in association with Design 5 Architects has reinvented these grand old buildings and seen their fortunes turn around.
The nurses quarters was rabbit warren of rooms and corridors. Its new purpose as a creative centre required a free flowing open space. Consequently, a series of voids was cut between the floors, with the fabric of the building being left exposed. The result is now an interior that encourages social interaction. Seven barrel vaulted roof arches, that form a veranda, have dramatically enhanced the facade. They are timber lined and have an ingenious glass gutter between each arch. This not only catches the water but allows light to slice through the public space below.
The exterior portion of the archways is where the aesthetic of the timber takes full effect, with the sizeable undercover area showcasing the colour of the Blackbutt battens. This visual appeal is then emphasised by negative space left in the top of the archways to allow natural light to shine through.
Architecture - Mixed Use - Constructed
This award celebrates the design process and product of planning, designing and constructing form, space and ambience that reflect functional, technical, social, and aesthetic considerations. Consideration given for material selection, technology, light and shadow.
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