While perhaps considered inherently sustainable for being an adaptive-reuse project, Tinderbox House employs a ‘long life, loose fit’ strategy that enables the historic structure to remain intact while creating a robust and enduring fit-out.

Early site inspections conducted by Breathe at the c.1887 former Foy and Gibson historic brick warehouse complex revealed an apartment fit out with a series of unfortunate conversions. Perhaps described best as a ‘firetrap', we began exploring conceptual possibilities relating to the tinderbox and its three core elements.

Comprising flint, tinder and fire-steel, this common 18th-century fire starting kit inspired a material narrative. Accent colours in red and yellow, light timbers with exposed joists and battens, exposed metalwork, and charred or blackened finishes formed the palette for the loft refurbishment. While perhaps considered inherently sustainable for being an adaptive-reuse project, Tinderbox House employs a ‘long life, loose fit’ strategy that enables the historic structure to remain intact while creating a robust and enduring fit-out.

Opening the mezzanine out onto a double-height void enables natural daylight and ventilation to penetrate deep into the plan. Interior works have focused on improving the thermal insulation of the building, using low embodied energy, and robust, low toxicity materials.

We are proud to acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land upon which Tinderbox House stands. We recognise their continuing connection to land, waters and culture.

Awards

• Houses Awards 2014 Apartment or Unit (Shortlisted)

Photography by Andrew Wuttke