Welcome to Thorpe Home, where we created a space for swimming, floating, and living all in one.

This residential heritage terrace house was designed for a client who had always dreamed of having a private pool at the heart of their home.

During the research stage, we delved into the history of the house and its previous owners, analyzing the changes that had been made over the years.

 Although there was no design involved at this stage, the client loved knowing about the house's past. The research was also incredibly helpful to discover important elements that helped us better design the pool. 

The client wanted a home that could provide a sanctuary away from the noise of the city and daily work, while also allowing them to entertain their friends for dinner or for a swim..

We faced some challenges during the project. One of the toughest obstacles was figuring out where to place the pool in such a small lot.

The Inner West Council is also known for their strict approach to development approval, especially in heritage conservation areas, so we demonstrate through the design the feasibility of the proposed height of the rear extension and make sure it wouldn't be visible from the public domain.

The X-design factor of the project is the pool underneath a suspended living space although we kept the maximum height allowed.

Another challenge was when one of the neighbours objected to our proposal, claiming it would impact the solar access of their property. We conducted a detailed shadow analysis to demonstrate that the proposal wouldn't affect the neighbouring property. 

One of the elements of the design process that the client loved was our 3D visualisation and walkthrough workshop during the schematic design phase.

Through an accurate 3D video of the project, the client could appreciated the quality of the design and the space. And this part of CRUSH process facilitated the client's decision-making and designing what the client has envisioned as their multi-generational home.

Location: Summer Hill 
Typology: Residential renovation
Status: In Construction
Architect: Carlo Russo 
Builder: MANOR GROUP
Budget: $ 1.5 Million
Country: Gadigal