Jury comment
The plan of Tír na nÓg first suggests a room of indefinite space, but further investigation reveals a carefully considered placement of wall and roof that overturns the traditional definition of a room. This crafted addition uses light, levels and gardens to create a playful and engaging environment that is rich in its detail and which promotes a relaxed approach to lifestyle.
The concrete structure of the building reinforces its perceived quality of ruin, while other materials in the home’s extensive palette function as “support acts.” The existing residence seems to be the beneficiary of this deft act of building, providing a counterpart to its more optimistic partner, with the union of the two structures ultimately encouraging a lifestyle that privileges choice and flexibility.
Tír na nÓg is a melding of sophistication and experimentation that challenges the traditions of inner-city living by replacing security and privacy with openness and spaces for sociability.
See full image galleries of all the winning and shortlisted projects here.
Award for House Alteration and Addition under 200m2 supported by Fisher & Paykel.
Credits
- Project
- Tír na nÓg
- Architect
- Drew Heath Architects
McMahons Point, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Project Team
- Drew Heath, Ross Langdon
- Consultants
-
Builder
Drew Heath
Carpentry Gerard Murphy
Engineer Andrew Simpson
Heritage consultant Colin Brady
- Site Details
-
Location
Sydney,
NSW,
Australia
- Project Details
-
Status
Built
Category Residential
Type New houses
Source
Award
Published online: 25 Jul 2013
Images:
Brett Boardman,
Matt Craig
Issue
Houses, August 2013