Contrasting Precision – Refinery House by Carr

Drawing from the robust and crafted nature of Refinery House’s origins, Carr transformed the structure into a contemporary and openly connected residence. Throughout the home, differing textures, tones and heritage details are balanced to produce a project of dynamic contrasts.

Set within New Farm, a transforming part of inner Brisbane, Refinery House sits among many heritage homes being given contemporary revisions. Once the headquarters of CSR Sugar, the remaining red brick from the heritage building becomes the shell for the reworked residence. As a reminder of the structure’s industrious and hand-built composition, the textural brick defines the outer boundary, whereas a series of elements are inserted into the interior. Spreading the home over two levels, Carr integrates four bedrooms and accompanying bathrooms above, and a shared and open living zone below.

As a reminder of the structure’s industrious and hand-built composition, the textural brick defines the outer boundary, whereas a series of elements are inserted into the interior.

Designed as an inner-city accommodation offering for the interstate team when visiting, Refinery House saw Kokoda Property want to combine an expression of history, place and the company’s philosophies. By evoking a new purpose and changing the typology of the building, a sense of modern relevancy is brought to the site. Through opening the ground level to become a flowing series of spaces, the building now reflects how contemporary homes are occupied. Contrasts are highlighted within the residence and the approach to materiality results in a design that features gestures traditionally not seen paired together – instead of aiming for total cohesion, each nuance is celebrated.

Comprised of brick, stainless steel, polished plaster and recycled timber flooring, the resulting spaces possess richness and depth. Where original brick or darker elements remain present, the introduction of lighter finishes tempers the overall feel, whilst custom joinery and basins re-introduce a handmade character. The integration of long windows then extends a perception of space, drawing the eye outward and beyond the building envelope.

Contrasts are highlighted within the residence and the approach to materiality results in a design that features gestures traditionally not seen paired together – instead of aiming for total cohesion, each nuance is celebrated.

By allowing the nuances between light, dark, old and new to shine, Refinery House becomes a fusion of time and open movement. Carr utilised the existing history of the remaining architecture and overlaid a newfound relevance to continue the building’s narrative.