-
The clients wanted a"tree-house". Cantilevering the middle floor added the desired extra space and evokes memories of childhood tree-houses.
-
The existing house was nestled in a secluded rainforest garden adjacent Chinaman’s Beach and Rosherville Reserve in Mosman.
The lower-ground floor footprint was extended minimally, the ground (middle) floor was partially retained and reworked and the new top storey was introduced. Every effort was made to preserve the garden and the rock outcrops. Cantilevering the middle storey out over the lower ground floor provided the additional space but ensured minimal impact to the garden.
Windows and glazed highlights are positioned to capture tree vistas and view corridors. Materials and colours were selected so the house recessed into the garden.
-
-
The large open entry deck is welcoming, like a country homestead verandah. Party guests often sit at this entry to enjoy the garden.
-
-
-
The owners make use of the generous living room for regular Yoga classes.
-
-
-
The kitchen beyond has a line-of-site connection with the living room but is removed enough to afford some privacy.
-
Sun screening to the stairwell.
-
-
The external venetian louvres allow flexible control of the sun and light.
-
Opening the corner to the Angophoras outside entertains the eye during the _every-day_ chore of washing-up.
-
Not everyone gets a view of the garden from the verandah table so time was spent thinking about how to compose the vista looking back into the house.
-
Looking back towards the garage and the home studio.
-
-
-
The study is hidden behind the fire place wall.
-
Existing house plan and photos
-
Date: 1999-2002
Location: Mosman – Chinaman’s Beach, NSW
Project Team: Michael MacCormick, Joanna Barlow (Studio JAM), Shahe Simonian
Project Architect: Michael MacCormick
Interiors: Zobel Interiors
Structural Consultant: Bagnall & Associates
Builder: F.S.Hough P/L
Photography: Huw Lambert