SIR ARTHUR G STEPHENSON AWARD FOR COMMERCIAL ARCHITECTURE
SMART DESIGN STUDIO SMART DESIGN STUDIO Every detail of this mixed-use commercial space in Alexandria has been rigorously considered by Smart Design Studio. The space sits on an industrial street within an existing warehouse and comprises two large commercial spaces and caretaker’s residence on the first floor. The original warehouse, addressing a laneway, has been meticulously restored with steel windows and detailing to highlight its enduring beauty. The front of the warehouse, irrevocably altered over time, has been replaced by a contemporary wave of bricks wrapping around stairs and folding open to curate views and light to the inside meeting rooms at ground and mezzanine levels. Entering the large open plan studio, you are struck by how light and quiet the space is despite multiple conversations taking place between the diligently working architects. Large glass clerestory windows afford most of the light, with supplementary lighting provided by bespoke linear lights, designed to tie in with the grid of fine steel truss work. At the top of the stairs, a series of brick parabolic enclosures intersect with glazed openings to create a reverent space celebrating both art and architecture. As a commercial offering, and a contributing element to this burgeoning cultural community, this studio truly establishes an architectural legacy. PHOTOGRAPHY DAVID HUTTON
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