By Common Architecture
The Spencer Park Surf Life Saving Club is located on Spencerville Beach, bordering the popular recreational areas of Spencer Park and Bottle Lake Forrest. The club has a rich forty-eight year history in the area and is active in both competitive Surf Live Saving and youth water safety programs. For much of this time, the club has patrolled the beach from a small Council-owned structure, adapted from ablution block to makeshift Club House. The project set to demolish this and reconstruct an inviting environment for the expanding club. The building would also serve as community space, after the previous Spencerville Community Centre was lost in the 2011 Earthquakes.
The concept is programmed around the movement of people and equipment and responds to both the immediate and wider site characteristics. Internal spaces are arranged according to priority and contained within three distinct wings. The result is a series of efficient forms, utilising robust materials that stands strong in its harsh conditions while receding in to the surrounding dunes.
In collaboration with Urban Function Architecture.
Common is the combined architectural practices of CoLab's Tobin Smith and Architects' Creative's Kate and Daniel Sullivan. With a strong design-led focus, both practices share a commitment to intelligent and meaningful architecture with an emphasis on natural materials and engaging spaces.
Uninhibited by tradition, inspired by the past and resolutely optimistic about the future, we enjoy nothing more than making great buildings for great people.