Mount Pleasant | Dharawal Country
Situated on the foothills of the Illawarra escarpment, under the sandstone cliffs, a small courtyard house provides a back drop for everyday life.
Sheltered within suburban bushland the building perimeter is wrapped by earth, a place of protection and refuge. The walls provide a continued datum encouraging privacy, sound attenuation and protection from harsh weather.
Thick earthen walls and native gardens entice pull you from the street as you and form a protected northern courtyard. Winter sun floods the garden and fills the large glazed areas surrounding the courtyard edges. Deep eaves project to shade against the high summer sun.
The interior focuses on a central dining and Island bench that hums with life during large gatherings. Southern walls twist to capture views out over the Islets and horizon - connecting Geera (Mt Kiera) with her five sisters, engaging directly with the Illawarra Five Islands dreaming stories.
Large trees both Yarr-warrah (Blackbutt) and Boorea (Turpentine) trees occupy the site. The rear deck and music studio carefully wrap the large Boorea tree planted by the clients parents - establishing a secondary courtyard. The southern deck, a shaded spot in summer connects the dwelling with the rear garden and significant Boorea tree.
A garden home, for the owners and their extended family to immerse themselves in the experience of their place, adjustable across changing seasons.
Project team
Brent Dunn, Katharina Hendel, Daniel Rivers
Builder _ East Built
Engineering _ Northrop Engineers