Branch: The Studio

Building and experimenting amidst an orchard in Victoria, Australian architect Brad Wray and Nicholas Russo have recently completed their studio's office using second-hand materials.

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Young architecture practice Branch Studio Architects have recently completed their office space, in an orchard in Officer, a developing rural town, east of Melbourne, in Australia. The location was chosen as the midway point between both partners' houses. "We came to agree the orchard would be a good half way point for us to meet, collaborate and bring together our creative thinkin from varying points of context," states partner Brad Wray.

"Additionally, given the sculpture studio was already present on the site, which included a wood & metal workshop, we thought it would be an interesting testing ground for building and experimenting," continues Wray. "We often find ourselves out in the workshop making furniture and testing ideas."

Branch Studio Architects, the studio, Victoria, Australia 2012

The studio harbours work areas for two architects and a landscape architect, as well as a meeting space. The form of the building was determined seeking to maximise views of the surroundings — while the architects face the orchard, the landscape architect faces a small courtyard. A full height entry door forms an informal threshold between the meeting and work spaces.

Materials used include recycled corrugated steel — collected from paddocks surrounding the site —, combined with glass on the façade, while inside, plywood floors and ceilings contrast with stark white walls. The plywood is also used to form a series of storage and shelving solution. Joinery was custom designed and laser-cut, forming workstation desks, benches and a cantilevered model display surface.

Branch Architects: The Studio
Design Team: Brad Wray and Nicholas Russo
Program: studio for two architects and a landscape architect + meeting room
Location: Bellevue Orchard Officer, Victoria, Australia
Area: 25 square metres
Materials: corrugated steel, glass, plywood

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