new emu park SLSC boatshed by design + architecture

the new emu park surf lifesaving club boatshed in australia

designed with the harsh seaside conditions in mind, the new emu park surf lifesaving club (SLSC) boatshed in australia features a range of practical building techniques that minimize the need for maintenance and day-to-day costs. local firm design + architecture led the project and worked closely with the club to create a sleek, modern, and more accessible boatshed. while smaller in size, the new spatial layout, and choice of construction materials better respond to current use.

all images © cam murchison

upgrading access, ventilation, storage, and choice of material

in line with the client’s desire to minimize maintenance needs, the architects tackled four design pain points: access, ventilation, storage, and materials. to start, they retrofitted the existing boatshed footprint to provide toilet access for the disabled and new female/male amenities blocks. moreover, the new design holds several roller doors on three sides, providing flexible access to the boatshed and separating board users from vehicles/trailers/boats. these doors also increase airflow and natural light, even in a closed position, thanks to their perforated surfaces. speaking of airflow, the damaged and leaking concrete roof was replaced with higher ceilings and a skylight to bring in permanent, natural ventilation, and lighting.

new signage on the emu park boatshed façade

overall, the simplified, albeit smaller, footprint allows for better usage of the boatshed and, therefore, more efficient storage. complementing the optimized layout is a clever choice of low-maintenance materials that will save up cost and withstand the seaside conditions. ‘construction materials consist primarily of concrete blockwork, timber, and aluminum sheeting. extensive design decisions were made to avoid any materials that would rust or require maintenance like steel or glass,’ elaborates design + architecture.

roller doors included on three sides to provide better access

a simple, low-maintenance, and modern design

the new access doors help increase ventilation and natural lighting

concrete blockwork, timber and aluminum sheeting make up the primary construction materials

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project info:

name: boatshed – emu park SLSC
location: emu park, australia

architecture: design + architecture
photography: cam murchison

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edited by: lea zeitoun | designboom