Bismarck House is Exquisitely Crafted Transformation of a Semi-Detached Dwelling

Bismarck House is a richly layered and exquisitely crafted transformation of a semi- detached dwelling. Breaking with the expected sequencing of rooms, the building form pinches to introduce a courtyard space between dining and living areas, inserting greenery and light at the centre of the plan. The house masterfully embraces the opportunity of the corner site to address the side lane along its length. This move offers activated screens to the living spaces and softly planted landscape edges to the beachside suburban backstreet.

The chosen materials are raw yet heightened by their combination and treatment. Exposed concrete floors and soffits are balanced with fine frames of galvanised steel and glass. White-washed brickwork to the ground floor living rooms modulates into polished plaster walls for first floor bedrooms and bathrooms, the materiality shifting to reflect departure from the public realm of the house. The first floor is draped with a screen of perforated aluminium pleats. This produces the impression of a floating form above the monolithic ruins of the ground floor, its own rooms being engulfed by an equally considered and textured garden. 

Bismarck house achieves a completeness in its consideration of the existing building, new addition and garden. Architecture is generously gifted to the street to the same degree it is afforded to its inhabitants;playful,elegant and enduring in its expression.

Project Information

Architect: Andrew Burges Architects 

Photography: Peter Bennetts