Jamal Tomkinson

Studio sanctuary attempts to strike a balance for creative workers between being together, being alone, being engaged and disengaged through a re-imagined higher-density suburban context. The project is dictated by several layers of interaction, which foster connections with the wider, internal, neighbour and family units on various different scales.

Reduced stimulation spaces characterised by the internal aspects, and enclosed spaces provide a moment of respite and reflection for creatives prior to them re-engaging with their highly stimulating work environments. The use of heavy rammed concrete, directed light and flora provide this tranquillity.

The heightened stimulation spaces are exposed and have external aspects with adaptable furniture which encourage interaction. On the ground level in the creative hub, public pods are available to be rented out to emerging artists. These pods can be opened to one another or to the outside using curtains, sliding doors and steel shutters to control engagement levels. Upstairs there are four dedicated creative spatial types, which facilitate the creative process including two collaboration spaces, a presentation space and a library.

Within the thresholds of these areas, there is an ability to change the level of social interaction by various operable elements. The front interface of the townhouses includes a dedicated artist studio for the residents, which can be connected with your nearest resident. The verandahs which flank the apartments and central building create a space, allowing the adaptable furniture to be transposed outdoors.

At the rear of the site is a dedicated space to foster a community that contains a large communal kitchen, green area and a workshop on display. The activation of the front interface to the street reclaims the “front yard” with a community garden and gallery space bridging the gap between creatives and the wider public.