fox johnston's balmoral house in sydney

fox johnston elevates house in sydney overlooking balmoral beach

realized by architecture firm fox johnston, this family home in sydney, australia is set overlooking the pristine balmoral beach. with the aim of fostering a residence that simultaneously feels natural and neutral, the form of the structure follows the contours of the land and features of a masonry platform with two elongated volumes above.

entry to the house is between these two volumes across the masonry platform
all images © brett boardman

fox johnston‘s response sees a rammed earth and brick base sits back into the landscape -the scenery designed by spirit level– and enables the metal clad volumes above to receive views, sunlight and ventilation. entry to the house is between these two volumes across the masonry platform – the arrival point modulated to capture views of sydney harbor. once inside, the house is imbued with a sense of calm and openness to its surroundings. the location of the living area on the entry level takes in the views and more private spaces underneath. these living areas have been orientated in a north-easterly direction as well as open onto terraces and courtyard spaces.

located on a terraced north-facing slope overlooking balmoral Beach

the slender building forms have been designed to be permeable to allow for both a conversation with the street as well as a connection to private garden spaces. these forms also allow for good cross ventilation and sunlight access, as well as embracing of the north-easterly aspect and surrounding views. a natural and neutral toned palette of concrete floors and rammed earth walls, brick, timber and zinc anthra cladding have been used to define the sculptural forms of the house and providing continuity between exterior and interiors.

the kitchen area