This iconic Manly corner shop gained protected status due to its originality of concept, unique layout and unusual mix of materials.
As a heritage-listed building, immense care and consideration was given to the original building. In consultation with council and heritage consultants, it was decided that the original building would be preserved untouched. To develop and maximise the site, a new building would be situated at the rear of the property, connected by the original courtyard.
Sitting on a corner block, the shop is adjacent to two rows of century-old, double-storey residences. It currently consists of a shop/office at street level and an apartment upstairs, both with separate entry. To allow for flexibility of use, this would not change with the renovation.
For continuity, the new building used the same architectural language and material palette. A pitched roof, rendered white walls, timber and sandstone reflect the building’s heritage context and overlay it with the client’s desire for a “sophisticated beachy aesthetic”.
As this is a small building, particular attention was given to the internal joinery to maximise floor area. To further accentuate the sense of space, the ceiling height was extended to the permitted maximum and optimally-positioned large windows bathe the shop in natural light throughout the day.