Challenged with the task of designing a contemporary, large building that reflects
Australian Architecture and the Australian landscape without detracting from the
site, I have committed myself to a strategy that protected and enhanced the
landscape. A large building no matter how artful was bound to detract from
Attunga Point’s beauty.
After studying the brief I came up with the concept behind my building which was
to create a space that has responded to its site and its surroundings.
Following the site analysis I chose to locate my building along the water’s edge
cantilevering over the water and the conservation/daisy area. After choosing the
location of my building on the site I was able to start designing.
The building I have designed is a two story building that has been broken up into 3
main spaces: the west wing, the entry and function space, and the east wing. The
buildings west and east wings have been angled slightly to allow better views and
sunlight in these spaces.
Trees are strategically placed around the building as well as an outdoor terrace
garden for the private areas have been strategically planned and designed to
ensure an uninterrupted view of Lake Burley Griffin.
By placing the building on the water’s edge and angling the west and east wing to
suit the views and sunlight, this allows almost every area of the space to have
spectacular views of the lake and its surroundings and also to have abundant
sunlight and air flow.
It’s all about light! In the function room natural sunlight filters through sky lights and
expansive windows. The function area is situated above the entry to make it a
smooth transition between the spaces. The walls in the space have been angled to
receive the winter and summer sun set and also to frame the sweeping views over
the lake to Black Mountain. Modifying the function areas exposure to the afternoon
sun, tall window and door recesses are cut deeply into a thick exterior wall, a
strategy that moderates the light entering the space.
Over the dining table that seats 50 people, there are large skylights cut at a deep
raked angle into the ceiling, allowing light and striking sky views at all times.
Beams of light trace onto the Gohara Limestone Floors and American Oak Timber
walls creating depth and different textures to the space.
The space also opens up to a private rooftop garden that has a reflecting pond and
bench seating overlooking the lake. Overall this space is exposed to an abundance
of light, air flow and spectacular views to make this space a once in a lifetime
experience.