House Vaucluse is situated on a narrow site with waterfront at one short end and parkland along the long northerly side of Double Bay, Australia. Designed by Bruce Stafford Architects, the prime design generator was to frame the various view opportunities from the moment one arrived off the street, by creating a range of different spaces, all connected to a central vertical and horizontal circulation spine on the long axis of the site. This resulted in a series of courtyards and volumetric experiences until arriving at the edge of the infinity pool.

The courtyard and double volume living area allow other spaces to ‘borrow’ views by looking through them. The use of natural, textural finishes was core to the design brief, the clients wanting a warm, earthy aesthetic. Rich stone elements such as backlit Onyx and dry stacked quartz stone walls provide highlights in the material palette.

Photos: Karl Beath