Overton Terraces is a unique apartment development located adjacent to the heritage listed Cottesloe Civic Centre. The steeply sloping site presented both challenges and opportunities. The stringent planning constraints regarding building height, access and setbacks were also instrumental in defining the architecture Our focus for the design was to create a building that would befit the location and would take full advantage of the site’s topography and panoramic ocean views. Minimalist forms with refined detailing were employed with an emphasis on natural materials, echoing a Mediterranean vernacular. Terracing the residences over one another enabled compliance with height restrictions and created large private landscaped terraces, all enjoying uninterrupted ocean views.  

Cantilevering pergolas with operable sun louvres provide protection to the expansive western glazing. Planting of native flora to the terraced roofs provides an improved environmental impact, reduces glare and helps frame out the roofs to enhance the ocean views. The slimline floating pergolas are in a striking juxtaposition to the rectangular cantilevered building forms. The horizontal lines are maintained with carefully detailedheritage-listed timber screening. The steeply sloping site has random stone retaining walls and planting which resolve the horizontality at ground level.

Photography: Dion Robeson (midday photos), Carla Atley (dusk photos)