Colorbond Commendation for the Use of Steel

Jury Citation

Conceived from the outset as a steel building, the Connolly Residence is notable for the disciplined and rigorous way in which a wide range of both standard and purposedeveloped steel elements are combined and expressed in its structure, skin and fittings.

It is also remarkable for sitting comfortably alongside more conservative inner city neighbours through careful scaling, proportions and boundary setbacks, its filigreed aesthetic and neutral galvanised finish providing a welcome counterpoint to the pervading coloured masonry. The clarity of the frame is a particular feature and the tensile roof structure allows full expression of the lightweight potential of steel.

Detailing is refined but never precious, allowing the house to feel at once substantial and robust, light and refined. Steel is used for the majority of elements with timber effectively employed to provide visual and tactile contrast.

Logic, consistency and intelligence have been applied to the design process to achieve domestic architecture that is disciplined, buildable and economic while avoiding any suggestion of being merely a “kit of parts”.

Many of Australia’s best-known lightweight houses are in the country – contemporary interpretations of a long rural tradition. The Connolly Residence is an important reminder that steel and timber can be equally at home in the city.