RITZ&GHOUGASSIAN were afforded the the opportunity to refurbish Building 02 in the new Morris Moor Precinct. The building sits proudly in the centre of Morris Moor, surrounded by pocket gardens and outdoor activity zones. When responding to the brief, function and form were considered in equal weight. A focus was placed on generating spaces that provided operators with a high level of autonomy and functionality, coupled with that of a unique design outcome.
This design works to create a thoughtful blend between the new and the old, and celebrates the weathered textures of the existing walls and floors. Considerations of materiality, light and space create a harmonious intersection between the existing structure and proposed re-imaginations. A selective palette of materials serves to create a homogenous dialogue within the space. Aluminium grated panels wrap the perimeter as an external ceiling – its transparency reveals the existing roof structure, and celebrates the height of the existing space. Concrete floors and seating compliment the metallic finish of the ceiling, which is carried further through the galvanised steel framing of the new floor to ceiling glazing.
Completion 2021
Photography by Tom Ross
Office Statement
Architecturally
RITZ&GHOUGASSIAN established their architecture and interior design practice in 2015. Located in Melbourne, they focus primarily on the user experience and ones relationship to the built environment through an interiorised lens. Working across both public and private sectors a collaborative process ensures their work is considered and resolved.
Socially
Quintessentially each of their projects is developed within a social and physical contextual framework. They place an emphasis on locally sourced materials, craftsmanship and landscaping celebrating the characteristics of each site, creating engrained relationships between environment, material and trade.
Intellectually
Volume is loosely defined, held together in tension by the architectural shell, the original vessel. This vessel naturalises the externalities present in the immediate context creating harmony and a series of moments or pauses. Detailed studies of light, space and materiality create opportunities for design and the creation of spaces that are both profane and mundane, spaces of memory and imagination.
Coherent
Architecture, interior design and landscaping intersect through a cohesive design language. Materiality is reimagined both internally and externally for each project, creating a palette that is coherent throughout the whole design. This process underlines a reductionist philosophy aimed at expressing the architectural volume through a simplification of the elements.
Jean—Paul Ghougassian
Director
Jean-Paul pilots the interior design projects within the studio. His experience within the realm of design is unique and extensive having worked across a number of sectors. His oeuvre illustrates a high level of critical thinking and controlled spatial composition, and together with Gilad, he brings a holistic approach to the projects within the studio.
Gilad Ritz
Director
Gil leads the architectural discourse within the practice. His interest in architecture and the built environment stems from a focus in field studies and phenomenology. After initially studying economics at Monash University, he later undertook a Masters in Architecture at The University of Melbourne.
A highly rational thinker, with the ability to navigate constraints and work within a creative framework. Through the layering of time and patina, Gil sees architecture as constantly changing, negating its previous condition into something different. He is passionate about transforming simple and honest materials into something more precious.