The Subtle Control of Vertical and Horizontal Circulation - Fawkner House by Workshop Architecture

Designed around the subtle control of vertical and horizontal circulation, Workshop Architecture’s Fawkner House takes inspiration from traditional Japanese planning techniques, taking cues from reveal and conceal methodologies.

Nestled in amongst an esteemed array of like-fronted Victorian houses in South Yarra, Melbourne, Fawkner Street sees Workshop Architecture breathe new life into the home. Taking place almost all within the existing shell, the new works entailed retaining the original double-fronted Victorian features and renovating the remaining, within the extents of an ill-considered 1990s extension. Both the original and previous extension span over two storeys, and through the implementation of nuanced subtleties, both in planning and intervention, a successful reworking was completed.

Fawkner Street sees Workshop Architecture breathe new life into the home.

Utilising the missed opportunities of internal planning and connection to the landscaped elements, Workshop Architecture took inspiration from traditional Japanese planning techniques. Known for the sequence of reveal and conceal, hiding vistas and deliberately taking occupants on pathways to then reveal a framed opening, the Japanese approach controls these spatial experiences in both purposed and indirect ways. At the core of the design philosophy was the introduction of both vertical and horizontal connectedness, and through utilising these principles, an eased feeling of flow and transition could be achieved.

Workshop Architecture took inspiration from traditional Japanese planning techniques.

Built by Overend Construction on a site just over 500 square metres, core-planning intervention saw a more efficient use of internal space, and more reasonable sizing of rooms across both levels. Layered into the planning was the idea of seeking and discovery, both key to the Japanese residential model. Deliberately denying open views to entice the occupants to seek them out is at the heart of this, as well as maintaining an open sense of connection between zones. These same principles are applied again on a vertical level, where purposely mal-aligned openings between bridges and skylights add layers of complexity, yet through subtle means.

At the core of the design philosophy was the introduction of both vertical and horizontal connectedness.

Beyond the restoration of the Victorian features, the use of steel for key structural elements, windows and reveals, together with a series of transparent glasses (fluted, clear and sandblasted) follow on with similar principles of revealing and concealing. These key operable elements also then act as connectors, linking spaces and uses throughout. The use of timber then adds a sense of warmth, and the varying use of blackbutt, walnut and sycamore together, adds a natural variation to each of its applications.

Core-planning intervention saw a more efficient use of internal space, and more reasonable sizing of rooms across both levels.

Fawkner Street interestingly defies the traditional clear delineation of sight lines and openings in its contemporary addition. Instead, the design uses time-honoured Japanese planning methodologies to layer in elements of play, discovery, seek and reveal elements and spaces throughout the home. The resulting spaces and sense of connection created by Workshop Architecture emphasise sophistication in execution of this layered approach.

A contemporary design that respectfully embraces its original structure, Fawkner Street shows how subtleties can be the connecting bond needed to connect our past and future homes.