Studio Edwards perches a permeable deck above an existing townhouse in Fitzroy

Above the roof of an existing townhouse in Fitzroy – a quaint inner suburb of Melbourne - Studio Edwards has perched a permeable deck as a space of ‘suspended reprieve’. Named ‘Sky Pavilion’ by the Australian architectural practice, the steel structure sits effortlessly on the building in a cocoon-like form that looks outwards and capture views of the city’s vast skyline.

Designed as a space where one can cook, entertain and retreat in solitude, a spiral staircase connects it to the storey below. The idea, as per the architects, has been to create an outdoor space elevated in form and experience. From the top, one can view the rows of seemingly interconnected rooftops and historic Victorian streetscape while savouring moment of solace and calm.

The structure of the deck reveals itself as a partly enclosed faceted steel frame integrated with panels made of perforated fire reinforced plastic. The entire skeleton, as shared by Studio Edwards, was fabricated off-site before it was craned into position atop the building in a day. Supported by adjacent boundary walls, the cantilevered deck beautifully hangs above the building as an extension of it and a distinguished stand-alone space for the residents.

The lattice surface of the panels beautifully filters daylight and cast stunning shadows in the living area of the deck. A certain drama is added to the aesthetics by the play of covered surfaces and voids that make the faceted form of the deck.

The interior design features a lounge table positioned in the centre and a countertop along the sides where the residents prepare their food. The ambience of the space is elevated by glimpses of the houses and the sky that peek in through the openings in the façade.

The choice of the material is driven by the need to provide shade and privacy from the surrounding buildings whereas the prefabricated nature of construction ensures minimal intervention and quick assembly.  

Studio Edwards defines the project as a space of versatility where aside from the interiors, the deck is provided with a sun-drenched surface ideal for sunbathing and a street-facing triangular plunge pool for refreshing respite.