Folding Steel
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2024 Spring, Year 3
Melbourne CBD, Australia
Mixed-used, New Build
280 sqm
This compact mixed-use infill building, nestled between two existing buildings in Melbourne CBD. It features two dwellings and a retail shop within a 4m wide, 12m deep, 24m high compact envelope, with an 1.5m plinth.
The design explores steel’s strength and thinness through a continuous steel plate that adapts as furniture, façade and stairs through folding. The project integrates function with spatial efficiency and aesthetics, responding to users’ needs in a tight urban context.
“Folding steel plate” is the main concept of the design. One continuous steel plate connects all floors and adapts to various functions. It transforms into a bar table, work desk, shelving, façade, staircase, feature wall, and rooftop shading element, flowing around the building to respond to user needs. The design thoughtfully considers how occupants interact with the space, balancing functionality with aesthetic uniqueness tailored to each user’s living pattern.
The first dwelling is designed for a flower arrangement artist, featuring a home studio and workshop. Living at the top of the building provides sufficient sunlight for the flowers.
The second dwelling houses a working couple and the owner of the craft beer brewery and bar. They share the living room and the kitchen in the centre of the dwelling, while having their own private and working space on different levels.
The ground floor retail is a craft beer bar with an outdoor courtyard at the back, while the basement is used as the brewery. The brewery machine connects to the tap at the GF bar and the owner's private pantry at the 1F.
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