Campbell House Offices: Adaptive Reuse by Tonkin Zulaikha Greer Architects

Located in Sydney, Australia, the Campbell House Offices project, designed by Tonkin Zulaikha Greer Architects, is an exceptional example of adaptive reuse. Completed in 2022, this project transforms a historic 1890s Federation house into a modern, sustainable office space while preserving its heritage within a Heritage Conservation area. Through a sensitive and integrated design approach, the project successfully merges the old with the new, providing a functional workspace that honors the building's history.

Seamless Integration of Contemporary and Heritage Architecture

The Campbell House project is defined by its refined simplicity and harmonious integration of contemporary design elements with the existing heritage structure. The design strategy focuses on enhancing the relationship between the two generations of the building—connecting the past and present through careful materiality and bespoke architectural details. The result is a timeless workspace that celebrates the original building’s character while providing modern functionality.

Sustainable Design and Timeless Materiality

The architectural approach is centered around the concept of sustainability, both environmentally and aesthetically. The design incorporates a predominantly white palette, a departure from the darker tones typical of the period when the building was originally constructed. This minimalist color scheme fosters a calm and timeless atmosphere, ideal for a contemporary office. The materials selected for the project include recycled slate roof tiles, glass bricks, white bricks, metal window reveals, and timber floors, which contrast beautifully with the original Federation structure.

Blurring Boundaries Between Indoor and Outdoor Spaces

One of the most striking features of the Campbell House Offices is the blurring of boundaries between the interior and exterior spaces. The design brings the garden into the building with intentional vistas of a mature Weeping Fig tree, enhancing the biophilic design. Interior seating elements are strategically placed to encourage interaction with the garden, further extending the workspace into nature. Natural light floods the interior, supported by a glazed roof that spans between the building’s existing roof ridges, ensuring ample daylight throughout the office.

Sustainable Features and Energy Efficiency

Sustainability is at the core of the Campbell House Offices. The building integrates 91 solar panels that generate 33kWh of energy, contributing to a significant reduction in the building’s carbon footprint. The panels are backed by batteries, enabling the building to function for 80% of the year without drawing power from the grid. This energy-efficient design is complemented by passive ventilation and solar shading, creating a comfortable and eco-friendly working environment.

Passive Ventilation and Natural Light

The use of high-performance glass louvers at key points along the north, south, and west facades facilitates passive ventilation, ensuring optimal airflow throughout the building. The strategically placed glass elements, including the glazed roof and solar blades, work in tandem to reduce heat load while maximizing natural light. This design not only enhances the interior environment but also significantly reduces the building’s energy consumption.

The Campbell House Offices by Tonkin Zulaikha Greer Architects is a benchmark for adaptive reuse architecture. It successfully blends heritage preservation with modern design, creating a workspace that is both sustainable and aesthetically enriching. Through thoughtful material selection, innovative design strategies, and a strong commitment to environmental sustainability, the project sets a new standard for the integration of heritage buildings in modern urban contexts.

All Photographs are works of Cieran Murphy