CHROFI, architectural practice based in Sydney, Australia

Queens Road Gatehouse

Client:
Parramatta Park Trust

Program:
Adaptation, Office Space

Scale:
191 sqm

Year:
2015 - 2016

Heritage Architect:
Government Architect's Office

Scope:
Concept, Development Application, Contract Documentation, Site Services

Photography:
Simon Whitbread

Team:
Public Works, McGregor Coxall

Builder:
Rapid Constructions

Location:
Parramatta Park, NSW

Status:
Complete

CHROFI worked with the Government Architect's Office, NSW Public Works and Parramatta Park Trust on the alterations and additions to the Queen's Road Gatehouse at Parramatta Park.

The original Queens Road gatehouse was erected in 1873. In response to the form of the existing cottage a simple gabled form extruded to accommodate the required floor space was developed. Physically separated by an entry path, the simplicity of the new form acknowledges and reflects the simplicity and humility of the existing gatehouse.

The new form’s gabled silhouette and lack of expressive detailing is intended to create a comfortable dialogue with the old structure whilst clearly and unambiguously defining itself as a contemporary layer to the site. The existing gatehouse is retained as the larger of the two dwelling-like structures and is anchored as the primary focal point of the composition. The new form and integrated landscape strategy knits together the diverse layers of the site, resulting in a pair of small, cottage-like buildings nestled within a garden, surveying the parklands beyond.

Original Condition

A Building In the Round

Separating Old and New

Placing Focus on the Gatehouse

Creating a Flexible Commercial Space

A Framed View to the Park