Australian Awards for International Architecture 2014 – Australian Award for Residential Architecture

This complex choreography of deep shadow, residential slabs and reflecting pools presents itself as a taxonomy of atmospheres. Stairs descend past rough tectonic walls into black depths in the manner of Swiss masters. The residential slabs wear a concrete Mondrian brise soleil frock – a passive energy device, a modifier of climate which also frames a zone colonised by balconies.

Views from the deep shadows of the high apartments speak of retreat; a world of luxury for residents versed in the codes of minimalism; other views from the slit windows are, according to the authors, ‘curated’. The ground levels are decks for contemplating water (reflecting pool, lotus pool) and for the young and brave to plunge (children’s and main pool).

A movement route from drop-off to core negotiates this hedonistic landscape via a shady and light filtering nine-metre-high colonnade and three bamboo filled light wells. The concept sketch is infinitely useful to unravel the complex and sophisticated organisational arrangement. A pool house pavilion updates and abstracts an Indian typology, stripped of Mogul decoration, with a bar and gym lurking behind glass wafers.

Didactic stringencies in the Sukhothai Residences present a striking counterpoint to the ‘colonial reference’ of the earlier and adjacent Kerry Hill Architects’ stage one hotel.

Peter Wilson Affiliate RAIA, Jury Chair

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Header photo by Albert Lim KS