Flashback Friday - Aldersgate at Red Hill

Designed by Ian Fulton in 1972, Aldersgate Court quickly became an iconic landmark due to its position and innovative design. Aldersgate Court was originally built for low-income retirement housing, consisting of 36 one-bedroom units and small communal facilities. Over the years, the building slowly fell into disrepair – affected by concrete cancer and neglect.

A few years ago the opportunity arose to refurbish and renew the landmark and save the building from disrepair.

“I’ve been looking at this building since I was a boy and I’ve always been proud of it as a bit of a history of the practice,” said Mark Trotter, Director at Fulton Trotter Architects.

“The opportunity to renew it within the practice was terrific.”

Aldersgate is now a luxurious city fringe lifestyle alternative with 18 beautifully presented, spacious, apartments. Landscaped gardens, a pool and gym, and street-level community spaces promote resident interaction and a sense of community.

“The original design had been put together close to 40 years ago and the expectations of older people has changed,” said Geoff Batkin, CEO of Wesley Mission Brisbane.

“The new design now exceeds those expectations.”

Use of colour and transparency on the eastern façade creates variation, taking advantage of city views, ventilation and practicality. The external elevation embraces a colour palette of the surrounding neighbourhood, while the western façade generates a new level of transparency from the interior with naturally coloured glazing in elongated panels combining with blurred edges and louvered sun hoods like an exaggerated skin, that casts shadows and creates depth.

This updated façade addresses multiple modern building regulations while generating a new identity for the building.

“I’m surprised and touched Aldersgate’s been upgraded so beautifully,” said Ian Fulton.

“The new design is a good carry-on from what we’ve done before. I’m really thrilled my work will live on in this way.”