twist on heritage – Melbourne
Killara, a stately home in bohemian Windsor, was designed with a purpose: to be so well-conceived, well-built and embedded in the enduring architectural principles of modernism that it would never be demolished.
Designed by Junctions90 the success of Killara’s modern twist on a heritage building resulted in it taking out this year’s Building Design of the Year in the annual BDAV Building Design Awards. The brainchild of Melbourne design firm Junctions 90, Killara is a heritage home, and one of the area’s last remaining stately homes, nestled on one of Windsor’s most prestigious streets. Marc Bernstein-Hussmann, Chair of the Judging Panel, said the winning project took advantage of an outstanding structure that was fortunate to have been saved from developers at auction and I couldn’t agree more!
“It is great to see a stately home preserved with respect and integrity. Showcasing a beautiful interpretation of modernist architectural values, this project pushes the creative boundaries to produce a truly unique and inspiring design,” Mr Bernstein said .
“The project is an impressive take on a heritage building, making a bold statement with the addition of a two-storey, self-contained apartment. One of the most striking features of the building is the upper rear façade, which draws the eye up and blends into the sky with its reflective stainless steel finish. (Which is great unless you’re a bird !)
Killara makes full use of modern materials such as industrial concrete, steel and plate glass to define a vast, free-flowing interior. The project combines new architecture, outdoor surroundings and the requirements of heritage overlay into one unique structure.