Born from an innovative and meticulous design philosophy, Compose is set to become an architectural exemplar for the area. Crafted for the Hawthorn of tomorrow and yet firmly rooted in the rich heritage of its past, the architecture will provide an elevated living experience whilst offering an enduring addition to Melbourne’s most iconic streetscape.
The form of the building is strong in its simplicity; long, linear and well-articulated, it utilises rhythm to form a cohesive visual language. Further articulation is achieved by shuffling each townhouse along the length of the site, providing a sense of individuality and creating a green corridor to the rear townhouses.
Designed to establish a strong sense of place, the facade offers an elegant, considered and respectful addition to the fabric of Glenferrie Road. Defined by a linear rhythm and strong articulation, each terrace home features a separate entry point, providing a feeling of individuality and singularity – of coming home to your place.
Grounded by a robust, red-brick base, the facade materiality is sympathetic of nearby heritage architecture, designed to stand the test of time just as these historic buildings have. This is complemented by charcoal steel accents, which imbue an industrial aesthetic, creating a balance between contemporary and classic materials. Perforated screens distill a layer of texture whilst fostering sustainable living and a comfortable interior environment.
Adorned in lush greenery, vegetation cascades from every angle of the building, bringing a softness and vitality to the facade whilst complementing the canopied streets of Hawthorn. Generous setbacks in the architecture create ample space for a landscape buffer, encircling the homes in a natural sanctuary.
Compose is located in close proximity to the Glenferrie Road shops and public transportation. Additional public amenities such as Hawthorn Library and numerous schools are also within close proximity to the site.
The materiality of the building is sympathetic to its location through the use of restrained and high-quality facade treatments. Compose seeks to complement the existing character of the streetscape and surrounding suburb through the use of a masonry base (red-brick, render and bluestone cladding), creating a feeling of longevity and quality. The red-brick is drawn from immediate heritage examples such as St Josephs School to the south and Hawthorn Presbyterian Church across the road. This tactile, rough brick is complemented by smooth charcoal steel reveals and the textured perforated screens. The upper most floor is clad in dark metal cladding allowing the setback to appear even more recessive and differentiated from the lower facade treatment.
Careful consideration has been given to the planning of the terrace homes. The articulated mass means passive ESD initiatives such as cross flow ventilation and solar gain are well utilized. The layouts afford a high level of amenity and flexibility to the internal spaces, with generous storage areas, living space and kitchens. The terrace homes have been designed with privacy and quality of living in mind, utilising perforated screens which moderate the light, privacy and views to the landscape below.
Gardens have been masterfully curated by Eckersley Garden Architecture.
Established by iconic designer Rick Eckersley, with partners Scott Leung and Myles Broad, Eckersley Garden Architecture understands how space and facility work together. They design for lifestyle and amenity, believing both form and function should be considered and neither compromised. With a horticultural focus, they create relaxed and tactile gardens that invite their occupants to enjoy their outdoor space. You won’t find rows of box hedge here – just plenty of dirt under their fingernails.
Each terrace home has been gifted with an expansive courtyard, encouraging outdoor living and entertaining. Nestled amongst verdant shrubs, rambling vines and a selection of mature trees, these considered spaces have been designed to create a sense of enclosure – of being completely immersed in natural beauty. A beautiful combination of evergreen and deciduous plants provides residents with a changing vista throughout the year.
