New South Wales
Seventy percent of Australians live in suburban housing. This context is often overlooked in discussions related to increasing housing supply. This project, on a subdivided block half the size of its neighbours, allowed us to explore increasing suburban density without compromising amenity.
The character of the suburb has changed in recent years with exotic gardens and large masonry houses replacing the endemic planting and weatherboard fisherman’s cottages of early European settlement.
The façade of the Shiplap House is clad with white painted timber boarding to reference the materiality of the traditional fishing cottages. The openings within the façade are carefully sited to maximise and frame dramatic views over the harbour while maintaining privacy between the closely sited neighbouring houses.
Ventilation panels adjacent to each window provide cross ventilation and sun shading awnings provide a playful pattern to the façade. The house is set within a garden of endemic planting.
Commendation for Residential Architecture – Houses (New)
Shiplap House, opposite the South Head Signal Station and Macquarie Lighthouse in Sydney’s east, stands as a viewing tower above the neighbouring residences. It’s a finely crafted, refined work of architecture.
More viewing tower than a response to historical precedent, the house presents an alternative model within its context. The house is stacked over three levels – from garden room, bedrooms at the first floor, and living areas above. The chiselled plan provides expansive windows positioned for views to Sydney Harbour while preserving those from neighbours.
The house presents a counterpoint to suburban development worth further exploration.
This is a very special house which has exceeded our expectations. We love that the layout of the home allows us to bond together as a family whilst also offering pockets to be a recluse for creativity. The minimalist layout and interior allows for interchangeable personalisation, especially in the children’s bedrooms which will change over time just like they will. Our home offers us serene modernity a beautiful balancing act between expansive harbour views and privacy and there are still plenty of walls and ledges to display our art, plants and personal belongings.
The Australian Institute of Architects acknowledges First Nations peoples as the Traditional Custodians of the lands, waters, and skies of the continent now called Australia.
We express our gratitude to their Elders and Knowledge Holders whose wisdom, actions and knowledge have kept culture alive.
We recognise First Nations peoples as the first architects and builders. We appreciate their continuing work on Country from pre-invasion times to contemporary First Nations architects, and respect their rights to continue to care for Country.
