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THE JOSEPHINE SHAW HOUSE

project data

Location: 

Client:

Floor Area:

Completion:

Henry Street, Port-of-Spain

UDeCOTT

17,480 sqft

February 2022

Project Type:
Residential

Services provided under a Design-Build Contract:


Architecture
Interior Design
 
Bespoke Furniture Design

This government sponsored hostel for young women is a three storey building within an overall site with two existing dormitory buildings and an ancillary service building accommodating laundry and kitchen facilities.
The main façade is oriented towards the east and has a separate and secure entrance off Henry Street.
 
The L-shaped design feature on the east façade consists of a secondary layer of cement board construction in a geometric form. This accent panel defines the communal spaces on each floor as well as shields the main wall surface from direct sun exposure.

As eye lashes and eye brows shield the human eye against dust, glare and water, the configuration of custom-made awnings and L-shaped wall panels shield the bedroom windows from driving rain and direct glare while insulating the east and west facades from the direct rays of the sun. Additionally, the inner cill wall of each bedroom is treated with a secondary layer of gypsum board with thermal insulation
 
The landscaping treatment of the forecourt tempers the micro climate to create a comfortable retreat for the occupants.
 
These passive design details have been incorporated as part of the architectural treatment to shield the exposed walls of private bedrooms and communal spaces from direct sun exposure.
 
The design team also worked closely with the contractor's woodshop to develop the furniture details. Each of the 31 bedrooms is furnished with bespoke design pieces in neutral and natural finishes, that allow for flexible private spaces to adapt as residents grow.

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