Innovative use of colour to reflect and work with the natural surrounds was a highlight of this year’s Dulux Colour Awards, announced this week.
Kart Projects for House K, Melbourne, took out the award for Single Residential Exterior with its blocks of colour and texture applied to define different elements and sections of a renovation that combined an old house with new additions.
“Rejecting the often-used strategy of blending old and new in residential additions, this design not only opts for an obvious delineation, but a bold, forthright one, with colour as the primary mechanism”, the judges said.
Dulux Colour and Communications Manager Andrea Lucena-Orr observed that challenging stereotypes typified this year’s exceptional line up of winning projects.
“Not only did we witness some remarkably creative, original projects, but this year we also saw colour strategies that challenged stereotypes, with ambitious programs and unparalleled impact, across a range of building typologies”, she added.
Indeed, the Australian Grand Prix was awarded to Studio Bright’s Monash Robotics Lab project, for its bold move away from the customary muted, clinical palette typically associated with science facilities.
‘This lab is warm and inviting thanks to a play of earthy tones, colour pops and calming greens”, said the judges.
The project also picked up the Commercial Interior (Public and Hospitality) Award.
Another emerging theme this year was the integration of landscape as a consideration in the architectural response.
“We saw natural features inform the palettes of a range of projects, some drawing upon seasonal colours, others creating backdrops for the play of sunlight and shade,” said the judges.
Studio Bright was commended for the Single Residential Exterior award for its Autumn House, Melbourne project, with its references to the ever-changing colours of a mature backyard elm tree, ‘especially when in full autumnal flair’.
“Its Russet Tan tones work equally well through the seasons, blending when the leaves turn orange and contrasting when they are at their fullest green”, the judges said.
“Combined with a deep green fence and vine-laden screens, the overall effect is cohesive, elegant and restrained, allowing the seasonal shades of landscape elements to inform the composition.”
The beautiful greens and greys of a spotted gum tree towering over the terrace house was the inspirational source of colour for Lachlan Seegers Architect’s design in their Erskineville House project, winning them the Residential Interior award.
“Centred around a spotted gum, Erskineville House deftly fulfils the architect’s aim ‘to bind the home’s atmosphere with the everchanging presence of nature”, the judges said.
“Cabinetry in greens is similar to the gum leaves, light yellow gives a sunny feeling, steel threshold onto the courtyard in natural grey to compliment the hues of the trunk and bathrooms were tiled and painted blue to create the atmosphere of being underwater.
“We commend the architect’s commitment to the vision in what appears to be a simple response but is, in fact, a highly considered and finely wrought design.”
For more information on the 36th Dulux Colour Awards, visit dulux.com.au/colourawards
