Between Escarpment and the Sea. Coledale, located between the Illawarra Escarpment and the Pacific Ocean, is an area undergoing gentle transformation, where miner’s cottages jostle with more recent homes. The brief asked to accommodate a creative family of four and to provide a smaller second dwelling to share the wonderful locale with extended family, friends and guests.

This project is built on a constrained corner block, where a steep south facing slope, ocean views and solar access are all at odds with one another. In response, and drawing from the geological strata on this coastline, a new raised ground plane and elevated deck was developed, providing refuge and prospect for the occupants. Below this, the garage, storage areas and a second, smaller dwelling on the street corner are accommodated. Atop, sits the larger volume of the main house, running North - South, creating a courtyard with its eastern aspect toward the Tasman Sea.

Ascent to the elevated podium, via a concrete stair under the transparent balcony, is similar to nearby ascents up the escarpment through the canopy of the rainforest. This platform invites landscape in and welcomes community; for the morning surf check, a casual wave to neighbours and sunset drinks. Afternoons are spent in the corner windows, reading and watching the sea. Friends drop in.

Gathering here is relaxed. Robust materials accept sandy feet and children playing. The West facade is composed of strong vertical blades, cranked to the North to collect sun and protect from afternoon heat, while the East facade guides views, and filters light through a transparent, planted verandah forming a close connection to changing light throughout the day. The project demonstrates how a dual occupancy development can relate intimately to its street and landscape location, while providing amenity and privacy for both dwellings.