Chinamans Beach House
On the bones of a sandstone quarry looking out to Sydney Heads, a private sanctuary of linked pavilions is anchored onto the cliff-face site, in among the angophoras.
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A former sandstone quarry, the site was scarred from historic mining, but rare views to Sydney Heads and Chinaman’s Beach are its reward. The project was as much about landscape rehabilitation as creating an extraordinary private residence. Minimal impact to the environment and ecosystems were paramount.
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An orchestrated arrival experience leads through entry-level viewing bridge and courtyard.
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Two pavilions on stone platforms nestle into the site around a central courtyard that allows filtered light and breezes to permeate. They are linked by a sculptural timber stair and viewing bridge, orchestrating the arrival experience.
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Material elements of solid sandstone and rolled copper blend organically into the bushland site.
Landscape is the primary experience of site, from the regenerative native gardens to harbour views beyond.
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Materials work with the climate and site. Copper wraps the pavilions, shielding the inner sanctum for privacy. Concrete and stone foundations deliver thermal mass, with temperature controlled by low-e glazing and sliding timber screens.
- Architecture & Interiors Studio Johnston
- Builder Evolve
- Structural TTW
- Landscape Miles Baldwin
- Hydraulics ITM
- Photography Mackintosh Photography, Brett Boardman, Katherine Lu, Simon Whitbread