Room at the top
An exercise in going up rather than sprawling out, this contemporary,
multi-level sandstone home makes the most of its spectacular views
A steep, narrow site with poor access is not
always the ideal starting point for a new build –
however, out of adversity can come great things.
This site is part of a battle axe allotment
situated on Sydney’s Balmoral slopes, offering
views over beaches and the harbour headlands,
says designer James Cooper of Sanctum Design.
“The design had to maximise the sweeping
views and resolve the difficult access created by
the battle axe-shaped site. At the same time, the
home had to appeal to a family with teenagers,
maximise the recreational potential of the land,
and reflect a luxurious treatment throughout.”
The site’s steep nature imposed a limiting
building footprint to achieve the required floor
space of around 365m 2 for the new home.
“First, we resolved the tricky site entry and
egress by a car turntable set within a large entry
courtyard,” says Cooper. “This saves on turn-
ing space and allows visitors and occupants to
always exit the property in a forward direction.”
Also responding to the steep lie of the land,
Sanctum opted for a stepped house form.
“Essentially, we created the home as a series
of horizontal layers to assist in reducing its bulk
and to settle the design into the landscape.”
Previous and facing pages: A facade
of sandstone and thermally modified
timbers gives this sculptural, three-
level home by Sanctum Design a
natural aesthetic. Set on a steep
site the house is backed by a huge
retaining wall.
Above: Given the home’s restricted
site and the need to take up the
approach with a car turntable,
designer James Cooper created a
formal, dignified entryway with a
coffered ceiling in the limited space.
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