In response to a brief requesting a ‘recessive icon’ – one that is prominent yet does not distract when viewed from the War Memorial, the Pool of Remembrance and St Mary’s Cathedral WOHA set to work to design this rectilinear form that sits most comfortably as a backdrop to these historical buildings with detail and articulation of superior quality. Careful planning gives all apartments generous access to spectacular views. The Hyde has been designed to high environmental standards and in compliance with the Building Sustainability Index. Its long north facing frontage is ideal from a passive solar aspect with deep horizontal sun shades on every level to screen the high angle summer sun but allow the low angle winter sun to enter into the apartments. Natural ventilation measures and excellent sound proofing of units makes living conditions comfortable and helps reduce dependency on precious resources. WOHA’s work has featured in Architecture Australia, Architectural Review Australia and Vogue Living Australia as well as many other publications. WOHA has won awards and recognitions from many countries with a philosophical view of exploring the intersections of culture, context, history, nature, climate, sustainability and social behaviour. Click here to follow the link to the WOHA website.

JANET LAURENCE – INTERIOR ARTIST

Janet Laurence is a well-known Australian artist whose work is exhibited nationally and internationally. Janet exhibits regularly in Australian and Japan exploring the relationship between the natural world from an architectural context.

The Hyde lobby is home to Janet’s art work titled ‘In Your Verdant View’. This spectacular artwork consists of nine hanging panels suspended above a water feature in front of a mirror and reflects the surrounding life and light. It is constituted from botanical fragments of Hyde Park, onto which all the apartments at The Hyde overlook.

Janet’s artwork is carried through on every level of The Hyde with the botanical drawings displayed on mirrors in the common areas. The varying species of botanical life on display interconnect us with Hyde Park and the Botanical Gardens as Janet has revealed the fragility of the natural world giving the loose impression of hanging trees throughout. Click here to follow the link to Janet Laurence website.