Photo by Trevor Mein.Photo by Trevor Mein.

Two of Australia’s finest, most celebrated architectural practices, John Wardle Architects and Durbach Block Jaggers, have come together to collaboratively design an arresting, high profile undulating brick building for Phoenix Central Park Gallery & Performance Space in Sydney’s Chippendale.

From the street, passers-by are greeted with a shape-shifting brick façade, that in moments appears straight and angular, while in others it flows freely much like the rippled surface of water. A glass oculus punched into its side becomes a looking glass from which those within can peer out at the world.

Both studios individually designed differed aspects of the interior. The bell-shaped performance space was brought to life by Durbach Block Jaggers, who modelled the interior off of Elizabethan-era theatres. Architects explain movement from the exterior into the interior as an “unexpected leap from the ordinary to a secret space of held peace.” The room curves around occupants as if it were the carved interior of a sinuous cave. Pale timber cladding lines the walls, before seamlessly continuing onto the curving ceiling – creating a shell that feels warm and protective, despite its dramatic theatricality.

Connected to the auditorium is a gallery space designed by John Wardle Architects. Expansive walls of exposed concrete stand boldly, the scars of their conception becoming the backdrop for the artworks that will colour the space. The architect describes the process of installing the cast-in-situ concrete as highly challenging, explaining, “the degree of difficulty was extremely high as the footprint of this building is on a tight inner urban site.” A hanging system of tie rod holes embedded within the precast creates a surface for fixing artwork. Skylights channel diffused soft light into upper galleries, allowing for light-filled spaces that sit in direct contrast to the moody, darker atmosphere of the gallery below.

A courtyard of curving concrete planters holds succulents and cacti, creating a light-filled area that feels like an extension of the gallery.

Commissioned by art philanthropist Judith Neilson, Phoenix Central Park Gallery is an artistic hub where visual and performative arts are interwoven together. The strong collaborative relationship between two architectural studios has created a memorable space filled with regal personality. Consider us massive fans.

Photo by Trevor Mein. Photo by Julia Charles.

[Photography by Trevor Mein, Martin Mischkulnig, Tom Ferguson, Julia Charles and Gavin Green.]