By Castlepeake Architects
A steep, vacant site above Middle Harbour provided great opportunity for an outward looking but very private house. Arranged in an 'L' shape on the highest part of the site, the main part of the house cantilevers north into space over a cliff line. The master bedroom deck above this cantilever provides a stunning vantage point. The house looks south west to the city, to middle harbour at the west and to the north and north east a steep embankment of bush spotted with angophoras. The main living area opens so that the interior is like a balcony rather than there being a conventional external balcony. This space also opens to a private grassed courtyard, covered deck and a swimming pool adjacent to a rumpus room. The pool extends past the cliff line to match the projection of the house. It was a requirement of the client to have a house built of materials with minimal maintenance and no external paint. In response, face brickwork forms the building's base with the upper levels finished in aluminium sheet and a pre-finished board.
Builder PHD Constructions
Photographer Neil Fenelon
Our aim is to design site specific houses that improve the lives of our clients. Well proportioned spaces and forms which closely relate to the attributes of a site are life changing for the people who use them everyday.
Our method is to rigorously and logically analyse each site and brief and to arrange each response in an efficient and artful way. Central to the analysis and response is a thorough understanding of the client and their requirements.
Castlepeake Architects is a small, design focused, Sydney based architectural practice with many years experience in all types of residential architecture including new, altered and heritage houses. Our small size allows director input into every project from initial design to completion on site. We are a close knit and passionate team with a focus on design excellence and client satisfaction.