Huntleys Cove Residence was designed for a family wanting to escape the increasingly fast-paced Sydney lifestyle, without having to move too far from the city. Their dream home journey started when they purchased a unique plot of land: a secluded site surrounded by bushland, neighbouring only two other lots, with easy access to the nearby bay and reserve - and all within 10km from the city centre.

The spatial configuration was informed by the limitations imposed by the site’s steep topography, a mature exiting gum tree which needed to be retained, and the desire to connect to views of the surrounding landscape while maintaining privacy to an adjoining heritage-listed cottage. The ability to fully take advantage of an outdoor lifestyle and maximise indoor-outdoor connection was also key.

The result is a house which digs deep into one corner of the site while cascading down through a series of terraced levels on the other side, all the while allowing all the living spaces to face towards north and the views of the nearby bay. The large open living area remains column free due to the use of Dincel technology for the concrete slabs and external walls. The existing outbuilding has been converted into a two-storey cabana/guest house complete with gym and steam room. Between the new house and cabana, a swimming pool wraps itself around a cantilevered master bedroom window.

Huntleys Cove Residence is a result of a uniquely inclusive process of collaboration between client, architect, builder, engineer, interior designer and landscape architect. The house is tailored to its inhabitants, while maintaining a spirit of openness, homeliness and generosity of space towards friends and visitors.

Architect Mark Szczerbicki Design Studio

Photography by Tom Ferguson

Landscape design by Melissa Wilson Landscape Architects