A quaint Japanese maple enhances the pristine appeal of a snowy dwelling in Sydney
Nestled on the lands of the Gadigal People of the Eora Nation, within the bustling city of Sydney, Australia, a contemporary multigenerational residence, Bellevue Hill House, offers a tranquil urban escape. Originally two separate apartments, this expansive three-level home was meticulously reimagined by Mathieson Architects, boasting panoramic views of the iconic Harbour Bridge and Rose Bay.
"The design process for Bellevue Hill House began with a thorough evaluation of existing conditions and a deep understanding of our clients' requirements," says Phillip Mathieson, founder and design director of Mathieson Architects. The goal was to create a residence that exuded calmness and harmonized with its elevated harbourside setting.
To overcome the fragmented architectural history of the existing building, key structural elements were retained, and the language of the house was modernized to achieve a cohesive, contemporary aesthetic. The new architectural form offers expansive views of Sydney while providing intimate, inward-looking spaces that cater to the ebb and flow of family life.
One of the primary concerns in transforming the residence was protecting the privacy of its occupants, considering its proximity to neighboring properties on three sides. A series of angled aluminum blades was strategically used to manage sightlines while preserving the home's relaxing, retreat-like feel.
The architecture studio overcame the challenge of unifying the disparate elements of the original building by simplifying and clarifying the design. The front facade's Spanish Mission style was tempered, and a consistent architectural rhythm was established through horizontal banding, steel screening, and white-rendered blade walls.
The ground floor serves as the main living area, offering a chef's kitchen at its heart. Pivot doors can either partition off or open up the space, providing flexibility for formal entertaining or casual, open living. The dining and lounge spaces span the home's full width.
The pool, shining with turquoise mosaic tiles, is shaded by an elegant Japanese maple tree, inspired by the client's travels in Japan. Upstairs, the primary suite covers all necessary amenities, including bedroom, ensuite, dressing, sauna, and steam room, while offering a private terrace. Additional rooms and lounges cater to the growing family and guests.
The rooftop hosts another pool that offers impressive views of the cityscape and bay area. A minimalist material palette dominated by white tones was used throughout the home, ensuring cohesion and a sense of ease and tactility.
Light and materiality play a significant role in shaping the atmosphere of Bellevue Hill House, creating spaces that feel both generous and grounded. From soft plastered walls to linen curtains and darker accents in stone and timber, every detail contributes to a harmonious living environment that seamlessly flows from one room to another.
"The home was designed to offer a calm, purposeful, and deeply livable experience from the moment you step inside," concludes Mathieson. Whether it's the rooftop level, which serves as both a retreat and social gathering space, or the cohesive, spacious layout that caters to multigenerational living, Bellevue Hill House truly encapsulates quiet luxury and elegant design.
For more information, visit mathiesonarchitects.com.
The interior design of Bellevue Hill House enhances its calming atmosphere and complements the harborside setting, providing a harmonious living environment. The lifestyle within the residence caters to the ebb and flow of family life, offering spaces for formal entertaining or casual living, as well as intimate, inward-looking areas.
