design + architecture revamps the emu park SLSC boatshed to fit today’s needs
the new design offers access points to the disabled, includes low-maintenance materials, and features a skylight for natural ventilation and lighting.
the new emu park surf lifesaving club boatshed in australia
designed with the harsh seaside conditions in mind, the new emu park surf lifesaving club (SLSC) boatshed in australia features a range of practical building techniques that minimize the need for maintenance and day-to-day costs. local firm design + architecture led the project and worked closely with the club to create a sleek, modern, and more accessible boatshed. while smaller in size, the new spatial layout, and choice of construction materials better respond to current use.
upgrading access, ventilation, storage, and choice of material
in line with the client’s desire to minimize maintenance needs, the architects tackled four design pain points: access, ventilation, storage, and materials. to start, they retrofitted the existing boatshed footprint to provide toilet access for the disabled and new female/male amenities blocks. moreover, the new design holds several roller doors on three sides, providing flexible access to the boatshed and separating board users from vehicles/trailers/boats. these doors also increase airflow and natural light, even in a closed position, thanks to their perforated surfaces. speaking of airflow, the damaged and leaking concrete roof was replaced with higher ceilings and a skylight to bring in permanent, natural ventilation, and lighting.
overall, the simplified, albeit smaller, footprint allows for better usage of the boatshed and, therefore, more efficient storage. complementing the optimized layout is a clever choice of low-maintenance materials that will save up cost and withstand the seaside conditions. ‘construction materials consist primarily of concrete blockwork, timber, and aluminum sheeting. extensive design decisions were made to avoid any materials that would rust or require maintenance like steel or glass,’ elaborates design + architecture.
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project info:
name: boatshed – emu park SLSC
location: emu park, australia
architecture: design + architecture
photography: cam murchison
designboom has received this project from our DIY submissions feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.
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