Signalman’s Quarters
As featured on Restoration Australia
Watch Signalman’s Quarters on Restoration Australia S04E04 now on ABC iview
Overview
The history of the Signalman’s Quarters is intrinsically linked to the fascinating story of the Hobart semaphore system, once an essential part of colonial infrastructure. This project involved the careful and considered restoration and extension of this significant heritage structure.
A clear yet complementary relationship between old and new has been sought. Playful, abstract reference has been made to fragmented historic forms, materials, and memory of the archaic function of the site. The intention has been to create architecture reflective of the informal tradition of timber and masonry outbuildings while achieving a refined and contextual streetscape contribution.
Contemporary in form and crafted in detail, new works have been designed to create spaces that invite sunlight and provide visual connection to near and distant landscapes, while the ghost of the long-demolished semaphore mast is evoked in the new chimney’s subtly imprinted, cryptic telegraphic signals.
Client Testimonial
”The renovation has changed our life and exceeded all expectations. We now enjoy spacious open-plan living with access to a new courtyard. A feature window captures the all-important afternoon sun, the vaulted timber battened ceiling is a standout and Mandy loves her butler’s pantry. The aesthetic is warm, understated and very liveable as a family home.
The restoration of the veranda and stonework has achieved a charming ‘olde-world’ atmosphere. The connection between new and old is seamless with direct access to outdoor living at both ends of the house. We are delighted and now settled for life.”
Awards & Jury Citation
2021 RAIA TAS - Heritage Award
2021 RAIA TAS - Commendation for Residential Architecture - Houses (Alterations & Additions)
"1+2 Architecture have successfully run the gauntlet of heritage overlays, codes, standards and conditions surrounding the Signalman’s Quarters to create a sensitive, well scaled, generous and light-filled home.
1+2 Architecture’s precise mapping, documentation and careful reconciliation of the numerous alterations and additions to the original 1850’s Georgian cottage was superb. At the departure point between the original house and the new addition, the architects bucked the trend of the glazed corridor and instead created an enclosed space with one perfectly proportioned skylight that aligns with the sidelight of the original door, enlightening the moment of transition. 1+2 Architecture have deftly captained the project through the ups, downs and unknowns to create a rich, intricate and layered architecture that is referential yet without pastiche.”
“Strong and resolved forms characterise the Signalman’s Quarters alterations and additions. The refined gable geometry and simple yet perfectly executed material composition recall the cottage's Georgian roots, which contrast with the exuberance of the Northern Victorian façade.
1+2 Architecture have reinterpreted the ‘back of house’ heritage requirements and created a bricolage of pitches, lean-tos and awnings that cleverly break down the scale of the addition from the street while artfully concealing a unified, generous and beautifully conceived space within.”
Location
Address: Battery Point, Tasmania
Country: nipaluna
Status
Built (2020)
Category
Residential - Houses (Alteration & Addition)
Photography
Joe Grey Photography
Awards
2021 RAIA TAS - Heritage Award
2021 RAIA TAS - Commendation for Residential Architecture - Houses (Alterations & Additions)
2021 Houses Awards - Shortlist: House in a Heritage Context
2021 Houses Awards - Shortlist: House Alteration and Addition over 200 square metres
Media + Publications
Restoration Australia S04E04 - ABC iview
Key Collaborators
Builder:
Delpero & Clements Builders
Landscape Architecture:
Playstreet
Town Planner:
IreneINC
Heritage Consultant:
Praxis Environment
Land Surveyors:
Leary Cox & Cripps
Quantity Surveyor:
WT Partnership
ESD Consultant:
RED Sustainability Consultants
Building Surveyor:
Lee Tyers Building Surveyors
Structural and Hydraulic Engineering:
Aldanmark Consulting Engineers
Electrical Engineering:
Christopher Crack
Safety In Design Consultant:
Aware365