Wesley Edward Edgar Centre
Surry Hills, NSW
BRIEF
A home for the most vulnerable, embedding a sense of belonging in Surry Hills. Wesley Mission's vision for this refurbishment exemplifies its continued commitment to helping people of all ages and abilities experience a more fulfilling life physically, spiritually, mentally, and emotionally.
Since the 1970's Wesley Edward Eagar Lodge has provided a safe space for our community's most vulnerable as they rebuild their lives. Scott Carver Architects' work on the Wesley Edward Eagar Centre for Wesley Mission does away with common misconceptions about social housing to fit beautifully amongst a gentrified Surry Hills locale. The new project opens up the ground plane to welcome the general public of Surry Hills, allowing them to appreciate the heritage-listed façade and chapel interior, and assist in the rehabilitation and reintegration of the homeless. The building's facade acknowledges its past while remaining relevant in a modern context. The spacious vaulted chapel is broken down by timber, metalwork and glass interventions that create moments of respite and informal and formal social spaces. These insertions give thanks to the heritage façade, maximise daylight, and improve vision across the space. Besides that, the upper guest levels comprise 40 larger reconfigured rooms with increased light and ventilation. Lighting design, textural palette and colour schemes play an evident part in creating a residential character's soft, mindful, and calm space.
