Architect Tony Owen has taken a novel approach at developer Ceerose’s latest apartment building, turning its facade into an urban billboard.
Eden in Chippendale, Sydney, uses vertical louvres of varying colours and textures on its eight-storey facade to create a giant piece of urban art. When viewed from afar a distinct image emerges of fabric flowing in the breeze.
Owen trialed five visual concepts, including the face of a beautiful woman. He put them on his company’s website, and asked the public to vote.
The developers report that some Council officers even registered their preference, with the abstract fabric design being judged more appropriate than the graphic of the attractive blonde, the floating clouds, the cityscape and an eye. (scroll down to see all the options)
The building overlooks the Central Park site — with towers designed by Jean Nouvel - and will have 26 apartments, with single-level studio and one-bedroom units and double-storey two and three-bedroom apartments.
“The western side of Eden is visible from surrounding areas so we took the opportunity to treat the facade as a piece of sculpture in an urban landscape,” said Owen. “Louvre fins in different colours and textures create an image that plays up the complexity of living in the city.”
The vertical louvres function for sun control, privacy, and help to modulate temperatures within the apartments.
Interiors are bold, with colourful tiles, geometric-patterned wallpaper, exposed storage options, and kitchens designed as large pieces of furniture to maximise the use of space.
