Embracing community and the existing fabric of a warehouse in Carlton, Waterloo Street by DKO Architecture explores colliding design elements. Old and new is respected, all coming together to create a new language of architecture for the site.

The surrounding urban fabric comes into the fold, honoured by what has come before it. “The juxtaposition between old and new is innovative and decisively articulated by drawing inspiration from the site’s history and surrounding architectural landmarks to deliver a project that sits comfortably within the urban landscape,” states the architect.

Pixelated

Part of the new insertion to the building is a stark black and pixelated metal façade. Contrasting dramatically against the existing brickwork, the screen makes a bold statement while offering some practical applications.

“Pixelated filtered light penetrates the upper living spaces, spilling through the punched metal screening that appears to float lightly above the solid brick warehouse base. This operable screening also allows the delicate movement of shadow and light to give the space a new daily personality,” says the architect.

Community conscious

The design of Waterloo Street considers urban living situations, offering a maximisation of space. The juxtaposition of old new goes even further – old fabric, new fabric, old suburbs and new communities. 

In addition, the rooftop space has been opened up to allow for chance meetings and garden space. Stacked vertically, the project considers functionality and how people inhabit space to come up with a solution that favours urban living.

Waterloo Street by DKO Architecture was shortlisted in The Building category of the 2017 INDE.Awards. In 2018 we are launching a new category, The Multi-Residential Building.

Photography: Tom Blachford and Peter Bennetts
Developer: Mileu Property