ARCHITECTURAL APPRENTICESHIP: ::ARCHETYPE:: Research

Bark studio

I chose to research the Bark studio because; I was attracted to it as soon as I laid eyes on its functional beauty. I can sense that it would be a delightful experience to work in the Bark studio, even though it is very confined in space, it looks like it would function perfectly to architects requirements, yet it still conveys “lightness, transparency and texture” (Contemporist, 2009).

Source: http://www.decodir.com/2010/02/the-studio-of-bark-design-architects/ (accessed March 10, 2010)

It is obvious that the surrounding landscape played a big part in its final design. Overlooking the hinterland, the Bark studios notion of ‘floating’ above the natural ground line is not only for visual effect but also a necessity in order to maintain the two glorious mature Brown Bloodwood eucalypt trees and the roots that stand on either side of the studio (Contemporist, 2009).

Source: http://www.decodir.com/2010/02/the-studio-of-bark-design-architects/ (accessed March 10, 2010)

The Bark studio relates to the environment as well as using it to the studios advantage by:

Maximizing and controlling breezes with natural Cross flow and ‘Stack Effect’ ventilation.
Using economical lightweight materials including plywood made with plantation
grown timber resource and steel which is recyclable.
Minimising earthworks
Considered orientation
Maintaining natural terrain and significant vegetation.
Using sun shade awnings and external fabric blinds

(Contemporist, 2009).

Source: http://www.decodir.com/2010/02/the-studio-of-bark-design-architects/ (accessed March 10, 2010)

St. Lucia house

The St. Lucia house in comparison to the bark studio, it is somewhat bigger but this doesn’t mean it’s less efficient. The construction of the house immediately follows the same path as the Bark studio by working around the existing trees. This time however, the trees were used to provide shading and privacy. Views of the river are also available through gaps in the trees (Elizabeth Watson Brown Architects, N.D)

Heating and cooling of the house is provided naturally with use of lightweight configurations allowing for ease in temperature control. Also one of the main features of the house, the retractable wall, provides great ventilation.