Quotation from a tourist promotional poster circa 1950's

Our design intent was to give the renovated building a point of difference to other new buildings in the Manly area. At the same time creating a 'sense of place' by bringing together elements of what might be loosely called 'Manly' style architecture from both an historical context and modern interpretations of coastal living.

We set out to achieve light and open spaces with design features.

From the top to the bottom, new roofing, deeply shaded dormer windows, operable external plantation shutters on Juliet balconies, large external decks, and timber slatted privacy screens all create an architectural composition that is distinctive, 'of a place', responsive to the environment, energy aware, and very private…

The ground floor units have access to the rear gardens from large decks and a covered outdoor entertainment area, separated from the gardens by folding louvred screens.

The attic rooms of the upper units is a highly detailed dormer timber roof with a raked ceiling form to allow as much natural light and ventilation as possible into and out of the top of the building. In lieu of air-conditioning the building has been wired for overhead ceiling fans for air-movement and general comfort.

In addition to this the east, west and partially south and north external skin of the building is layered in windows, operable external timber shutters and shade awnings to control solar heat gain and 'play' with the sculptural nature of light and shade. Very reminiscent of the 'top-end' vernacular housing model.

External colours, chosen by the contestants, traditional materials, and adopted roof forms create an exciting building full of unique features and interest, while at the same time affording a high level of comfort and privacy to the occupants.