A Combined Approach – Windsor Residence by Cera Stribley
Taking form across a typical allotment in Melbourne’s south, Windsor Residence combines both a townhouse and apartment arrangement as a condensed insertion in place. Cera Stribley focuses on responding to the surrounding and established context and proposes two intercepting residences that present as one.
Replacing an existing home within the tightly packed residential fabric of Windsor, the same-named home takes form as one solitary residence but is, in fact, two. The weaving of residences across the one site allows for increased density while still preserving the existing rhythm and character of the streetscape, which in this case is one of predominantly single residences. As increased density is required across many inner suburban locales over time, looking to new ways to integrate increased accommodation while retaining the essence of the area is key. By focusing on the silhouette of the surrounding homes as inspiration, the proposal mimics that of a generous residence, deceptively concealing its two addresses. Cera Stribley uses familiar materiality interpreted through a referenced scale to ensure the new sits comfortably amongst the existing.
The two residences sit interwoven and come together as both a townhouse spread over multiple levels and an independent apartment space integrated. The townhouse offers three-bedrooms, and the apartment has two, allowing for multi-generational living to occur across the one site. Similar to the issue of increased density, the need to accommodate a growing aged population could also see more models of similar arrangement allowing for members of the same family to co-occupy a building, yet with separate addresses. With a focus on sustainability, the decision to increase density and share services connections also reduces the overall footprint occupied.
While textural and darker materials cloak the outside, the interior sits as a balanced and light series of spaces. The exterior mixes both red brick and black painted metal elements, all contained within the familiar peaked form of what is commonly recognisable as a home. Beyond the front door, however, those perceptions change, and instead of the traditional interiors associated with a red brick home, the interior mixes contemporary monochromatic tones where layers of white and light-coloured timber and stone combine to create a calming escape from the outside world.
