“Conceptually the house is a protective structure planted on the rock, part cave, part tree house, which wraps around a north facing central courtyard. Situated along the ridge line of Castlecrag in Cammeraygal Country, the greatest challenge of this steeply sloping site was how to harness northern light and create private outdoor areas that enjoyed this aspect whilst opening to the 180 degree city and harbour views. Sectionally, the house extends the sense of the natural ground line, reaching to Middle Harbour and ocean beyond. This sets up a bilateral relationship between the smaller scaled, more intimate moments in the native garden, while on the other, generously opening up to the sky and the horizon.”

An almost brutalist concrete bunker softened by warm timber accents. Light filters in through timber slates while walls of glass embrace the view. Castlecrag Courtyard by Downie North.

Photography by Clinton Weaver.