Terracotta treasure wins big at architecture awards

AN ANGLESEA property inspired by the rugged, ochre cliffs it is perched upon has been lauded as a “jewel box” of detailing at this year’s National Architecture Awards.

The home, named Burnt Earth Beach House, was awarded the Emil Sodersten Award for Interior Architecture, along with one of the annual awards’ top prizes for residential architecture.

Designed by architect John Wardle, founding partner at Wardle, and built by Spence Construction, the property showcases terracotta in innovative and surprising ways.

Hand-torn clay bricks, the result of extensive experimentation, shape the building’s exterior and blend seamlessly with its beachside landscape, while inside tiles sourced from Italy provide warmth, texture and tonality.

 

 

In its citation, the jury praised the property for its “highly considered” application of materials which “delivers an authentic series of interior spaces” and its “angular plan” which both carves out “spaces to inhabit” and strategically captures the home’s surrounding views.

“The house emerges from the earth, sheathed in handcrafted clay bricks,” the jury said.

“These bricks also define the interior spaces, evoking a sense that the spaces are themselves carved out of the terracotta form.

“The internal spaces converge through a dynamic set of horizontal and vertical connections that link open spaces for social activities and congregation and intimate spaces for contemplation and solitude.”

Wardle also designed several pieces of furniture specifically for the home, which the jury said provide the opportunity to “layer meaning and memories within the design”.

“As a beach house, Burnt Earth Beach House extends the usual expectations to create a building for respite that genuinely celebrates its place, natural environment and love of craftsmanship and architecture,” the jury said.

“The result is a warm and welcoming home of high quality and inventiveness.”

 

 

Wardle said he was delighted with the response the firm had received for Burnt Earth Beach House.

“Our practice is fortunate to work with many skilled and adventurous trades- and craftspeople who are curious and willing to test, experiment, fail and repeat.

“Over the years, our explorations in building construction and materiality have brought together science and handwrought elements to arrive at unexpected results.

“This house is a good example of that.”

For more information, head to wardle.studio