Hilltop House — Bellevue Hill

Alterations and Additions

2014 Completion

750 SQM

Stafford Architecture — Architect

Hare + Klein — Interior Design

Dangar Barin Smith — Landscape Designer

Geoff Ninnes, Fong & Partners — Structural Engineer

Elana Castle — Photographer

Brief

Located in the prime Sydney suburb of Bellevue Hill, Hilltop House required an extensive modification from its existing 90’s presentation. Originally set out as large rendered blocks our Client’s desire was for greater warmth, accessibility and a timeless aesthetic. Stafford Architecture approached the brief with a design that would breakdown the existing forms visually and create a series of smaller articulations allowing a more welcoming connection with the home.

We were presented with an extensive additions and alterations scope with a heavy focus on materiality. Structurally the home required minor remedial works but a full strip out was undertaken in order to accommodate the more open flowing internal footprint.

Outcome

The exterior of the home was refurbished with a new colour scheme, textured render and natural finishes to the facade. We re-pinned the front boundary wall and clad an entire block section in native Australian hardwoods, which would provide durability and warmth. Retaining walls made of sandstone were installed to soften presentation to the street and a relaxed landscape scheme framed and softened the linear forms of the home.

Generous skylight panels were added internally with glazed glimpses breaking down large block forms to allow light in and reduce visual mass. Hare & Klein led interior design and decoration, producing a lively, warm palette that reflected light now filtering through the home. We constructed custom joinery to open up the floorspace with multifunctional units of storage, display and seating.

Hilltop House has been transformed into an inviting oasis of light, warmth and sanctuary for our client and their family. An updated but timeless design which has been built to sit comfortably over many more years to come.