Habitat Easy Street: A Masterpiece of Innovation, Timelessness, and Sustainability
At first glance, it’s abundantly clear that the newly established Habitat Easy Street precinct in Northern NSW is something special. Located in the heart of Byron Bay, this cleverly designed village blends residential and retail together for a hybrid location to live, work, eat and play. The design of Easy Street achieves what most contemporary architecture strives for; a seamless integration of innovation, timelessness and sustainability. With that said, it’s no surprise that the firm behind the build (DFJ Architects) recently won the Australian Institute of Architects award for Commercial Architecture.
Habitat Easy Street is the wonderful creation of designer Fraser Williams-Martin, which is more than just a collection of buildings; it's a carefully orchestrated symphony of natural elements and contemporary design. Williams-Martin's thoughtful selection of natural materials plays a pivotal role in creating a harmonious balance between the local community and the sub-tropical setting that surrounds the precinct.
Among the standout features of Easy Street are the Krause Emperor Bricks in the Ghost color and finish, which Williams-Martin considers to be one of his favorite elements of the build. These bricks contribute significantly to the soft, inviting warmth that radiates from the precinct. The neutral palette and style of Emperor Ghost bricks, our thin bricks, seamlessly complement the concrete, steel, and timber detailing, creating a visual tapestry that is both elegant and timeless. They also offer a stunning contrast against the vibrant, lush greenery and native landscaping that feature heavily throughout Easy Street.
The deliberate choice of the "hit and miss" bricks style is a stroke of genius, allowing for a dance of natural light and captivating views. This technique not only enhances the aesthetics but also serves a functional purpose by strategically limiting visibility for privacy in certain areas. Easy Street, therefore, becomes a carefully curated space where architecture and nature coalesce to offer residents and visitors an immersive experience, inviting them to embrace the play of sunlight and shade.
The Ghost color of the Emperor Bricks, with its understated elegance, allows them to blend seamlessly with the lush surroundings, creating a visual continuity that is both soothing and sophisticated. It's a testament to how architectural choices, even down to the selection of the Australian bricks, can have a profound impact on the overall ambiance and character of a space. The result here, is a precinct which emanates serenity and calm, amongst the hustle and bustle of daily life and business.
The success of Habitat Easy Street is not just confined to its visual appeal. The precinct embodies sustainability principles that align with the evolving needs of our planet. The careful selection of materials, such as our Australian bricks, reflects a commitment to environmentally conscious construction. These bricks not only contribute to the aesthetic charm but also serve as a sustainable building block for a structure that stands the test of time. Krause is proud to be at the forefront of many sustainably informed developments, with 100% of our bricks carbon neutral from end to end. As the first Australian brick manufacturer to offer full carbon neutrality across our entire range, we take great delight in working with Designers and Studios, like DFJ Architects, who are committed to a sustainable future.
Habitat Easy Street stands as a beacon of contemporary architecture, where innovation, timelessness, and sustainability converge to create a living space that transcends the ordinary. Our Emperor Australian Bricks shape the narrative of East Street both visually and functionally to create an immersive experience for all who visit the precinct.
Read more about the build and the space, via Habitat Byron Bay.