Off the (Curtain Wall) - Preservation of an adulterated innovation

OFF THE (CURTAIN) WALL: PRESERVA-

TION OF AN ADULTERATED INNOVATION

The critical discussion on the curtain wall as a modernist tool, its significance in Australia (symbolizing post-war prosperity) and its environmental downfalls produce a criteria in which can be referenced when discussing the preservation and retelling of these historic buildings.

In implementing the criteria on Berger House key objectives were identified and constantly considered throughout the design process.

1. Preserve the story of the Curtain Wall as an independent glass and steel system.

2. Provide amenities to the urban fabric as well as consider the Environmental context in which the site sits.

3. Relate to the evolved and newly relevant social, economic and Political context of post pandemic Sydney.

4. Return to innovation, reinstate the excitement which was historical -ly synonymous with the Curtain Wall, reconsider the possibilities of an independent light-weight glass facade system.

The following set of drawings/diagrams and descriptions outline this process undertaken from schematic through to final proposal of a revitalized Berger House, taking into consideration the objectives outlined above.

Figure 6: Existing Front Elevation Figure 7: Proposed Front Elevation