PART 1A - Archetype Research of the Bark Studio House

As an Environmental Filter
Bark Design Architects very own studio house in the Noosa Hinterland region of South East Queensland is one which typifies the practice’s distinctively subtropical design philosophy. “Bark’s aim is to create buildings that are designed from the inside, out. Responding directly to the needs of the people who use them, buildings integrate directly with the natural environment, insuring minimal environmental impacts and sustainability. Visually structures speak of lightness and transparency. Natural light, passive ventilation and cooling are fully explored to respond to the subtropical climate” (Bark Design, 2009). One of the key features of the structure is its ability to respect and float effortlessly between two mammoth bloodwood eucalypts. The visually striking elevated steel exoskeleton juxtaposes with both the natural materials and finishes used elsewhere in the design as well as with the environment itself. The floating design pays respect to the natural slope of the site as well as the root systems of the surrounding trees (Radar Projects, 2001). The open plan, and vast glass expanses also makes the building as much about the outside as the inside, with a seamless connection between the two allowing for breathtaking framed views across the North Coast landscape and the Pacific Ocean beyond (Guthrie & Atkin, 2006). Louvres are also utilised to maximise natural ventilation whilst the large glazing panels allow for the unlimited penetration of natural light into all parts of the building. The modular sized structure also allows for materials to be used efficiently and in a sustainable way.

The Modular House floats between Two Trees
Image Source: Bark Design Architects

The Interior Space overlooks the Pacific Ocean
Image Source: Bark Design Architects

As a Container of Human Activities
The design brief for architects Lindy Atkin and Stephen Guthrie was to encompass a studio space as a working environment for their emerging architectural practice, as well as providing flexibility between work and living resulting in a ‘shop-house’ typology (Guthrie & Atkin, 2006). The structure serves as both an architectural studio for six, and a living and sleeping space for two (Cilento, 2009). The open plan studio space fronts the small scale kitchen, bath, and library which run the length of the space. The smaller mezzanine level which is hidden amongst the trees provides a space for quiet reading, sleeping and bathing. The solid plywood facade acts to enclose the space from the road providing privacy and protection from the western sun (Radar Projects, 2001). In summary, this space succeeds in becoming a flexible and light space which functions perfectly as an architect's studio retreat ideal as a get away from the stereotypical office environment.

The Ground Plan is Open and Flexible
Image Source: Stephen Guthrie & Lindy Atkin

In Section the Building Effeciently Maximises Space
Image Source: Stephen Guthrie & Lindy Atkin

As a Delightful Experience
Most obviously, this house provides a tranquil getaway from the typical urban office setting one would expect to experience in an architect’s office. From the natural light that floods into the space through the surrounding windows, to the breathtaking framed views of the immediate landscape and the distant Pacific Ocean, this house works by challenging the concept of a traditional work environment by providing a pleasant experience of lightness and flexibility. At every join and detail, glass surfaces juxtapose cleanly with steel, aluminium, timber, and plywood, giving a clear and honest expression of materials and a simple, legible structure (Guthrie & Atkin, 2006). Clean lines and rectilinear geometry are also key features of the design which acts as a modular pod juxtaposing with nature. Natural ventilation and high roofs throughout the space provides a pleasant and natural working space.

The Pure Interior Frames the Environment
Image Source: Bark Design Architects

A Rectilinear Geometry is Experienced Throughout
Image Source: Peter Hyatt Photography

References:

Guthrie, S. & Atkin, L. 2006. Sunshine Coast Studio House. in UME issue 20: 2-7.

Cilento, K. 2009. The Studio of Bark Design Architects. http://www.archdaily.com/39543/the-studio-of-bark-design-architects/ (accessed March 2, 2010).

Bark Design Architects. 2010. Projects - Commercial - Bark Studio. http://www.barkdesign.com.au/ (accessed March 2, 2010).

Radar Projects: Noosa Studio. 2001. Architecture Australia. 90(5): p48.

Hyatt, P. 2003. High Modernity. in InDesign issue 14: 96-98.