Point Piper Residence

Although it’s set on a constrained site in Sydney’s increasingly dense Eastern suburbs, this house offers an exceptional standard of living. We worked with our clients to create an extensive four-story luxurious, yet practical and comfortable, home that caters to the growing needs of the young family.

An overarching aim was to balance seemingly competing requirements for privacy, views and architectural drama. From the street, the house, with its elevated garden terrace, is discreet in appearance, respectful of its neighbours and gives little clue to what lies beyond. The entry space is filled with indirect northern light, with views to the double height library and upper level corridor, which creates drama and interesting variations of scale. The main living areas are oriented away from the main street and towards the expansive water views to the rear. A double-height balcony space faces towards the views, providing protection and screening from the westerly sun, making the space suitable in all weathers.

In order to optimise its setting, as well as provide architectural interest, the sides of the house are folded, with angled windows catching glimpses of the views. The window placement and orientation also provides privacy from – and to – neighbouring houses.

Sculptural, monumental concrete structural blades frame the western façade and open it up to the harbour. The enduring architecture is complemented by a robust natural material palette of Sydney sandstone, copper and timber, all designed to age beautifully in the harbourside environment.