Balanced and Light – Oxlade by Shaun Lockyer Architects

Built upon an existing 1980s-era home, Oxlade is reworked into a contemporary and open residence readied for the modern context. Shaun Lockyer Architects focuses on an approach that retains much of the original masonry whilst weaving complementary and contrasting materials as a point of intrigue.

This new chapter in the home’s narrative sees Oxlade expanded and realigned to create open and flowing internal spaces that connect to the surrounding landscape. Using as much of the original canvas for the renovation as possible, Shaun Lockyer Architects intended to use a light hand on the alterations from both sustainability and respectful perspectives. Robust materials were used on the façade – additional masonry and metal screening define the outer parameters and boundaries of the home.

This new chapter in the home’s narrative sees Oxlade expanded and realigned to create open and flowing internal spaces that connect to the surrounding landscape.

As a means to articulate the façade, a bronze-anodised screen is added, emphasising the layered and private nature of the home. Internally, there is a more playful and purposeful approach introduced, which encourages an interplay of space and light and an overall expansion of perceived scale. A palette of light finishes and materials enhances the internal volumes and creates the ideal foundation for collected items to be displayed. As the previous structure felt tired, it is through small gestures and an overall softening that the home is given a refreshing second take.

The aluminium veil that wraps around the home connects the old and new whilst encapsulating its spaces into one volume. Bringing the living elements and the landscape into the architecture itself, planters frame the upper terrace space, allowing the greenery to fall over the building edge. Together with the other contextually appropriate plantings on the lower level, the home then feels more responsive to its climate whilst also being a robust and protective place of disconnect. The ability to live both inside and outside, with entertaining spaces that spill between the two, ensures the entire site becomes activated.

The ability to live both inside and outside, with entertaining spaces that spill between the two, ensures the entire site becomes activated.

In deciding to utilise the existing potential on site, Shaun Lockyer Architects ensures Oxlade is inspired by its past yet not defined by it. With both linear and curved elements throughout, moments of the unexpected bring a newness and excitement to the home.