By TPG Architects
The Guide Street Residence is a former Girl Guide clubhouse reimagined as a contemporary tropical home. The generous clubhouse grounds have been transformed into a lush botanical garden. A sense of retreat within this garden is the central focus of the design. Concealed from its suburban neighbours, the house opens privately to a secluded backyard landscape.
Responding to the clients brief the existing clubhouse was adapted for reuse and expansion. An emphasis on easy mobility and access led to a spacious single-level design.
Entry to the residence is screened by tall water features and blue stone clad columns allowing small glimpses of the garden. The main entrance leads directly to the central living space. This light-filled double-storey volume runs through the house from the street to the backyard. The space can be opened on both ends to allow for an unbroken connection to the landscape beyond.
A portion of the original roof was removed to create the dramatic ceiling height. This roof was recycled to create the master bedroom extension.
The open planning of the residence can be reconfigured into separate spaces using large sliding doors acting as moveable walls. The master bedroom is located within a private suite comprising of the bedroom, reading room, office and ensuite, all of which can be sectioned off. All bedrooms are strategically positioned to capture the morning sun and prevailing breezes.
The house is bookended by a deep brick verandah intended to shelter the master suite from the tropical sun. A large rectangular opening frames the view from the master bedroom like a landscape painting.
The rear outdoor entertaining space is defined by the large roof overhang extending the internal living area outside. Gabion rock basket podiums of local porphyry stone create a transition between the house and garden. The curved organic landscape design is a complementary counterpoint to the strong linear architecture of the residence.
Photography: Andrew Watson
About Us
TPG Architects' directors have lived and worked in the region for more than 30 years. With numerous projects in North Queensland, from the Whitsundays to PNG, we have extensive experience in sustainable commercial, community, educational, residential and resort developments.
Our ongoing commitment to understanding our clients' requirements is reinforced by the pragmatic commercial and design skills we bring to the project, with a thorough knowledge of the construction realities of building in the tropics. This is reflected in the practice's numerous repeat clients that we have been able to assist to successfully deliver award winning projects.
With over 25 regional, state and national architectural awards, TPG Architects and our directors are the most highly commended practice in the region.
Quality Management
TPG Architects’ quality management system conforms to ISO 9001:2015 / AS/NZS 9001:2016. Our third-party accreditation reflects TPG Architects’ commitment to best practice in the architectural profession and delivering the best quality service for our clients.