Beneath an unassuming house in Birchgrove, a remarkable historical boathouse is cleverly concealed on a steep waterfront. An extensive collection of glass doors and windows frame the the harbour beyond and illuminate the rich textures of the interior where aged timber structural beams add tactility and mingle perfectly with the briny scent of the sea. The atmosphere is thick with maritime nostalgia – a perfect blend of history and context – with the rhythmic sound of the harbour swell echoing countless stories of adventures past.
The primary objective was to provide a functional connection between the existing house and boatshed with step-free access, as well as elevating the pedestrian entry experience to the main house. The complexity of the sites’ location and subterranean conditions presented unique challenges, demanding significant creativity and innovation to address the uncertainties revealed during site inspections. There was never a dull moment, with the necessity to work with a team of excavation experts from Lightning Ridge. Tackling these unique and often complex challenges as they arose, was a profoundly rewarding experience that enriched and advanced our practice and thought process.
A dark and wonderfully dramatic meandering underground passageway was unearthed to provide seamless transition between the house and boatshed via new lift. Robust corten portals frame either end of the tunnel, detailing the cellar. The rock depth dictated the different head heights of the walkway, while halo and directional inground lighting accentuates these features, highlighting the spacious double-height cellar. This creates a dynamic interplay of light and shadow upon these weathered, manmade elements, contrasted by uncovered raw and natural rock formations and vestiges of previous construction periods.
With a sense of arriving in an entirely different environment, the entry to the boatshed is celebrated with a new skylight on axis, flooding the space with natural light while preserving the character of the existing Boatshed’s timber structure. The warm hues of the aged wood harmonise beautifully with the modern enhancements, creating a seamless blend of old and new. A new kitchen featuring a reclaimed timber island bench enhances the openness of the area, creating a delightful space for cooking, entertaining and allowing for moments of quiet contemplation. This hidden sanctuary is not just a boathouse; it’s a living archive of the sea’s enduring allure, where every detail evokes a sense of wonder and connection to the water.
