BOLD COLOURS & INTERESTING TEXTURES CONTRIBUTE STRONGLY TO THE SUCCESS OF THIS PROJECT ‘Each tread is one component, and it basically bolts together like a meccano set and is built onsite,’ says Vince. ‘Each section is quite light, so it was relatively easy for the stair builder to put together.’ The terrace itself is made from modwood, a recycled plastic decking product. This was chosen by the architect, after some consultation with the client and the builders. ‘It was discussed a bit, because they did have some decking work originally, and it did deteriorate over the eight years it was there. And being three storeys up they wanted something that was long lasting, and no maintenance, so that was the theory behind using the modwood up there. The large round windows provide a clue that this is no ordinary back shed ‘It has a wood feel and a wood grain to it. It’s not as heavy as a solid timber, and it’s pretty stable. It doesn’t swell or move and crack like timber would. It’s easy to work with – you can cut it with a power saw, drill it with a screw, and it has clips on the side of it so that the fixings are concealed.’ Consultation between the builder, architect and client is a hallmark of this build. ‘Tony Marraffa and myself at TCM have done a few jobs with Austin Maynard Architects over the years, we’ve worked with this client on a few builds, and the client has worked with the architect, so we have a harmonious relationship.’ The good working relationship, and the trust built up over time helped the Brickface clients to be open to brave design choices. The bold colours and interesting textures contribute strongly to the success of this project The colours, material choices and detailing were all specified by architect Mark Austin, right down to the pattern of the bricks and the interior paint colour and as the project manager Vince pulled it all together. He contracted an experienced bricklayer who could manage this precise custom brickwork and made decisions on the spot, or with the clients when unexpected issues cropped up. Despite the impressive end result here, Vince maintains that the build was nothing out of the ordinary. It’s the brickwork, custom round windows, and bold interior colours that combine to make it something special. ‘Really it was a standard build,’ he says. ‘It’s aesthetics and small details that give it the appeal – in shape it is a just a box. ‘But the details make it pop, like the feature glazed bricks, little details like the brick edge along the top, half round tops to the doors there and the circular staircase up to the rooftop.’ As a corner build this one may be boxy in shape, but as a studio apartment with pool and roofdeck this laneway gem is something out of the box. Vince has to agree: ‘It’s always great to be doing recycled interesting work like this – it’s come up really well, plastic I’m really proud of that one.’ modwood www.tcmbuildinggroup.com.au decking 32 HOUSING MAY 2018 PROJECTS Photos: Tess Kelly