DB house

2022 | Gayamaygal Country | Balgowlah

A new house situated at the high point of a steep, harbour-front site, the DB house combines family living, art, and flexibility in suburban Balgowlah. Its stepping forms, housing a rumpus on the lowest level, living spaces in the middle, and bedrooms above, were informed by a need to balance both privacy and sunlight. The upper level is set back around a north-facing, external courtyard to allow sunlight into the home; operable vertical louvres provide inhabitants with privacy from the neighbouring dwelling. From the entry - a transitional, verandah-like space - gently curving walls draw the circulation towards the spiral staircase, a sculptural centrepiece to the home amidst the client’s eclectic art collection. Soft natural light cascades down its sinuous form from a custom-made, curved skylight above. Designed for flexibility, the DB house incorporates a number of moving elements: sliding doors and joinery panels to be adjusted according to the inhabitants’ needs. In the main living area, large sliding glass doors allow a seamless connection to the outdoor deck and expansive water views beyond. Located along the Spit to Manly walk, the bold palette of black timber cladding and dark bronze responds to the dual orientations of the site: providing privacy along the street frontage, and receding into the trees when viewed from the harbour, settling the DB house into its natural environment.

Built by Tecorp
Photography by Luc Rémond