Project challenges: When it comes to architects within Sydney, Scott Carver are at the forefront. Their philosophy and values are about bringing together bold thinking and design excellence, shaping places that directly and positively influence people, communities, and prosperity. So when it came to the design of The Henderson in Alexandria it was just that – shaping a place that fits into the heart of Alexandria and promoted the architectural history of the community. John Ferres, Senior Associate at Scott Carver (and a keen design researcher!), said, “it was one of the last blocks to be developed in Alexandria and was an old factory. It sits across the road from the heritage-listed pub, it has two street frontages that spans the corner, so it seemed only appropriate to lead us to the use of brick”. It is this design aspect that has created such a distinctive industrial aesthetic to the community and reflected the industrial architecture of the Alexandria.

The solution:

The important thing about creating communities is that the outdoor spaces really make a difference! With the limited space available when building in the inner city, it makes sense to create beautiful outdoor spaces on the rooftop.  John Ferres is motivated by “architecture that seeks to improve the human condition.” So when designing the rooftop area, there were several important factors when specifying materials to be used. “Firstly, longevity and maintenance are big factors that come into your mind when designing these spaces, as strata-type buildings don’t always receive the best maintenance long-term.” It was this main driving factor that lead John to specify Outdure’s patented, Global GreenTag certified outdoor decking system QwickBuild®. “I liked the fact that it was aluminium (not timber), so it wouldn’t get water damage long-term. I also needed the flexibility to go to really low heights, so it made QwickBuild® an obvious choice as it is the only system that is maintenance-free and went to extremely low heights”. The second benefit of Outdure was “using the one system that could integrate the different surfaces, normally interchanging different surfaces can be tricky and hard work, but with QwickBuild® it was so easy. Integrating the different surfaces, using tile and decking in combination, is a great design aspect of this rooftop space as it helps define the different spaces.” Outdure’s ResortDeck composite boards and structural tiles were also specified. One of the many benefits of Outdure’s recycled ResortDeck range is it is very low-maintenance, with the high-performance qualities of composite decking, yet it doesn’t compromise on aesthetics. So, it gives a beautiful matte finish that you’d expect from the best natural timber products available.  On this project two different ResortDeck colours (Havana & Sunset) were specified, “the two colours are used to define and modulate the scale of this generous Roof Terrace space” says John, so gave it a really unique and beautiful finish.

Like any good architect knows, it is time (and bureaucracy) that can hold up projects. The benefit of an all in one outdoor decking system is that it can come prefabricated (on request) or can come modular, to suit your project’s specification – it is straightforward to install, which is always a benefit when you are trying to meet tight deadlines of projects.

When creating beautiful, unique outdoor spaces, it must deliver these aspects.

1. It is a beautiful space and creates a visual impression
2. It is functional
3. It requires low maintenance while still maintaining its longevity
4. Ease of installation
5. Adds value to the project

Outdure’s QwickBuild outdoor decking system delivered to all these requirements. “I had such a good experience with the product. It has given me great confidence in using this again,” says John Ferres.

Overall, we couldn’t be happier with the result of this project, “this building really delivers to the uniqueness and community of Alexandria and the beautiful, unique façade is one of my favourite aspects,” says John. I am sure the community of Alexandria agrees!