Ian Moore Architects has transformed a 19th-century pub in Sydney into a stunning residence, The Corner House, with a unique feature: a glass brick-clad rear wing that acts as a 'wall of light'. This project showcases the studio's ability to blend contemporary design with heritage conservation, creating a space that is both visually striking and respectful to its past.
The building, originally constructed in 1869 as The Moore Park Hotel, had a challenging history. It was converted into a grocery store in 1921 and later became a corner store, a role it played until 2022. The main issue was the building's structural integrity, with the brick shell in a delicate state and walls leaning outward by up to 300 millimeters. Ian Moore Architects addressed this by implementing a steel portal frame that not only supported the structure but also served as the foundation for the extension.
One of the key design decisions was to maintain the building's original character while adding a modern twist. The studio removed distracting additions from the 1960s and 1970s, such as aluminium window frames, and replaced them with Victorian timber frames. This restoration process was crucial to preserving the building's place in the streetscape and the local community's cultural heritage.
The interior of The Corner House reflects a blend of industrial and antique aesthetics. The living areas and garage are on the ground level, with two bedrooms and a family room above, and the primary bedroom and terrace on the top level. The use of clean white walls, glass elements, and exposed steel structural features creates a modern, open-plan feel. Meanwhile, the flooring incorporates oak boards and terrazzo tiles, drawing from the home's antique facade.
To optimize natural light and air circulation, the studio introduced an internal landscaped courtyard through the original section of the building. This design choice not only floods the interior with sunlight but also ensures steady airflow throughout the home. The house relies on natural cross-ventilation and ceiling fans for temperature regulation, as it is not air-conditioned.
The glass brick-clad rear wing, set back slightly from the street, is a standout feature. It is illuminated from within, creating a dramatic sight at night, with the glass bricks forming a 'wall of light'. This design element not only enhances the building's visual appeal but also symbolizes the fusion of old and new, a key theme in the project.
The Corner House is a testament to Ian Moore Architects' skill in adaptive reuse and contemporary design. It showcases their ability to transform a historic building into a modern, functional, and aesthetically pleasing home while preserving its cultural significance. This project is a prime example of how architecture can blend the past and present, creating spaces that are both timeless and captivating.
