The concept design for the Willoughby Precinct reimagines the wider Willoughby area through a contemporary lens, creating a modern yet respectful response that celebrates the architectural history and heritage of the Willoughby Precinct. The existing footprint is a challenging 5.5m wide and 48.5m deep, with a proposal for a retail opportunity at ground level and an orthodontic practice on level 1.

Architecturally it draws on the distinctive forms and material language of Heritage-listed buildings in the surrounds, the design blends historical significance with a refined contemporary aesthetic.

Key design elements include:

Material palette: utilises a composition of varied brick tones to connect the new works with existing adjacent buildings, reinforcing the site’s layered history.

Architectural features: include hit-and-miss brickwork, filtering natural light and defining key thresholds. Fluted glass (both new and repurposed) and a pressed metal ceiling, inspired by the original soffit of surrounding heritage buildings, evoke a tactile connection to place.

Form and expression: Circular and vaulted forms reinterpret the geometry of surround heritage structures, complemented by double-height spaces and a contemporary take on the building’s curved corner and cohesive façade.

Sustainability: The design emphasises environmental responsibility through the reuse of existing materials where possible and the integration of sustainable design principles throughout.

Contextual integration: The proposal responds to the character and tone of the surrounding village, ensuring the new works form a considered and cohesive addition to the streetscape.

Balancing heritage preservation with modern functionality, the Willoughby Precinct concept creates a destination that both honours the past and supports the future life of the community.