SILKWOOD, SURRY HILLS, SYDNEY, NSW, Australia

Photographs © Shannon McGrath



Completion Date: 2006
Use: Mixed Use
Client: Teachers Federation Health
Cost: $26m
Site Area: 1,500 sqm
Gross Floor Area: 6,100 sqm



SILKWOOD is located on the fringe of the city occupying a disused triangular parcel of land. A mixed-use brief with a residential, commercial and auditorium programme has permitted the development of a building with several identities.



The auditorium, which occupies a former lane way provides an appropriate separation to the neighbouring building. The commercial spaces occupy the lower levels and assist in creating a base. Sculptural skylight elements project into the courtyard above and further enhance the amenity gained from a clear span floor plate.



Located over the commercial spaces the apartments take on a courtyard typology. With a mix of single and double storey apartments the majority are able to be north facing, cross ventilated and have multiple aspects. Materials selected have been considered in response to the existing context.

At street level tactile materials including timber, stone, masonry, glazed brick, corten and galvanized steel are used maintaining the variety found in the adjoining buildings. On the upper levels a more robust palette is used, predominantly precast concrete with metal cladding to highlight the corner box and top floor mezzanine apartments.



Silkwood has 48 apartments, a 400 seat auditorium, commercial and retail tenancies.





Silkwood Apartments photos from Turner + Associates 111207 & 020108

Winner of RAIA NSW Chapter Award 2007 for housing : Silkwood Apartments

Sydney building - Info on architect Jorn Utzon

Sydney Architecture



Sydney Apartments architects : Turner + Associates

World Architecture : e-architect - a guide to key buildings across the globe

Australian Buildings

Comments / photos for the Surry Hills Apartments Sydney page welcome:
info@e-architect.co.uk

Sydney Apartments : page - adrian welch / isabelle lomholt