By Castlepeake Architects
On an extremely exposed cliff high above Killcare Beach, the house has an incredible ocean and beach outlook. It is built solidly from concrete and rammed earth to withstand weather and bushfire around a central courtyard. The courtyard opens completely to adjacent internal areas through doors which slide away entirely. It provides an external private place protected from southerly weather and also space to bring northern winter sun into the rear of the south facing living room. Winter sun also penetrates into the rumpus room below via glass panelling in the courtyard floor. While the building looks outwards to distant views it also focuses inwards to the courtyard with its mature tree as a focal point. The structure needed to be bushfire proof which presented many challenges particuarly with the protection of the wide openings. Drop down fireproof blinds were carefully concealed within the solid structure to satisfy these requirements.
Builder JR Blair and Sons
Castlepeake Architects aims to design site-specific houses that improve the lives of our clients.
Well-proportioned spaces and forms that closely relate to the attributes of a site are transformative for the people who inhabit them daily. Our method involves a rigorous and logical analysis of each site and brief, arranging responses efficiently and artfully. Central to our process is a thorough understanding of our clients' requirements.
As a small, design-focused architectural practice based in Sydney, Castlepeake Architects brings years of experience in all types of residential architecture, including new builds, alterations, and heritage houses. Our modest size allows for directorial input on every project from initial design through to completion on site. Our close-knit and passionate team is dedicated to design excellence and client satisfaction, ensuring that each project is a true reflection of its environment and the lives it changes.