Located in the inner-Sydney suburb of Lavender Bay, these two homes were originally supposed to be one large house before the owners decided to change the brief. “As the project progressed, the brief was adjusted for two houses – one house for the client to live and eventually retire in while the other was to be put on the market,” says Adam Taliano of Architecture Saville Isaacs, the firm responsible for the project.
Sitting atop a heritage listed sandstone wall, both homes offer sparkling, iconic views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, Sydney Opera House, CBD and Lavender Bay and feature high-quality finishes and detailing befitting the location.
“The client wanted two spacious homes with an understated, crisp aesthetic and the interiors to follow from the architecture. They wanted to maximise views and for us to pay special attention to the homes’ detail, quality, inclusions, storage and functionality,” says Adam who designed the project’s interiors in collaboration with Linda Morrice.
The houses are layered vertically and each has four storeys with the main living areas located on the top floors. “Each top floor living zone focusses forward to the spectacular iconic views, whilst connecting to intimate, sunny rear gardens,” says Adam.
Featuring a curved end and a straight one, it’s the curved side of the building that houses a spectacular spiral staircase. “The curved end responds to the shape of the site, housing a four storey recycled brick volume through which spirals a free-standing steel plate and stone stair. Natural light plays across curved brick. The spiral stair case and four storey void is a very rare and unique space to have in a home,” says Adam of the space that also features a cascading chandelier.
The home’s modern interiors take their cues from the project’s external materials such as off-form concrete, steel plate and painted recycled brick. “Light, natural and artificial, sculpts the space accentuating the textural qualities of the materials. Brass is used as a highlight, adding depth and contrast – handrails, shadow lines, door handles and light fittings are either polished, brushed, knurled or patinated,” says Adam.
When pressed to choose his favourite part of the project, unsurprisingly it’s the views that receive special mention. “I love the framing and sequencing of the iconic views as you move through the houses at key moments.”
Photography: Kata Bayer
