Case Study: Steep site with lovely views

The brief for this home was to create a sizeable (340m2) family home made up of 4 bedrooms, 3 large living spaces, 3.5 bathrooms while maximising the stunning sea views all on a very challenging site. The site was a narrow, oddly shaped section with a steep 7.5m slope from the road, and an imposing concrete palisade retaining wall at the rear. Our goal was to orient the home to ensure the rear yard captured afternoon sunlight and allowed for great indoor outdoor flow.

Design Solution

We designed a striking three-level home with box-shaped pods and extensive glazing to allow visibility through the house, allowing the view to be enjoyed from the outdoor spaces. A large glass facade at the front maximised the urban and sea views, while smart design elements like large cantilevers created a gravity-defying sense of space.

ABOVE: Pouring the in-situ board-formed concrete.

Structural and material challenges:

Excavation on this sandstone-heavy site was difficult and required a temporary retaining wall for safety during foundation work. We used in-situ concrete for the base, with timber board-formed walls running from exterior to interior, adding texture and interest to the design. Geofoam was utilised as lightweight fill behind retaining walls, while a concrete mid-level slab spanned over the structure, supported by these walls.

Interior and exterior finishes:

The exterior materials balanced a strong industrial feel, with powder-coated aluminium on the lower levels and softer natural cedar cladding on the upper pod. To soften the bold look, the landscaping included extensive timber decking and lush planting. The interior finishes embraced luxurious raw materials like plush carpets and custom-oiled oak floors, with the black and timber kitchen anchoring the space.

The open-plan interior maximised natural light, with large windows in the bedrooms offering sweeping views. The master suite featured a daybed window seat with built-in storage, offering a peaceful spot to relax and enjoy the view.

Site constraints and innovations:

One of the major site challenges was ensuring minimal impact from a large public stormwater drain running down the side of the property. We coordinated the earthworks with the neighboring property’s concurrent build to minimise retaining walls. The narrow driveway required careful design to provide easy access and off-street parking.

Outdoor spaces:

Throughout the construction process, we enhanced the outdoor living areas, adding a covered BBQ and kitchen space, a seating area with a sea view, and an elevated platform for a spa pool overlooking the roofline and out to sea. A section of the rear lawn was left clear to allow for a future pool installation.

Final outcome:

The project was a complete success, with the finished home showcasing a bold yet elegant design that overcame significant site challenges. Awarded a gold standard by Master Builders, this home is a testament to both innovative design and expert craftsmanship.