Woollahra Courtyard House by CO-AP

On a leafy Woollahra street, CO-AP have designed a contemporary two-storey home on the site of a 1970’s single-storey courtyard house. The former structure had a gabled roof in keeping with a neighbouring weatherboard cottage which no longer exists. CO-AP took cues from the previous house, designed for disabled access, planning the new house around an internal courtyard and taking cues from its neighbouring properties.

Designed for an empty-nester couple, the home had to accommodate for three generations of extended family visitors. Shortlisted for multiple design awards, the structure is to be commended, designed to allow natural light to filter into the entire interior. A series of skylights and windows puncture the concrete roof, the geometry of which follows the parallelogram form of the upper storey.

Masonry, concrete and metal cladding clearly define the architectural elements of the new building exterior. “Vertical articulation of windows responds to the rhythm of fenestration along the established residential street,” the architects explain.

Material selection was strongly influenced by the preferences of the client, which to the architects’ delight chose a natural and robust combination. Board marked concrete ceilings and terrazzo flooring unite the living spaces. Australian hardwoods are used for joinery and feature on bedroom floors, a warmer alternative to the cool concrete and terrazzo. The bathrooms deviate from the luxurious yet understated interiors, with pastel blue amenities and a variety of figured stones.

A sculptural steel staircase painted minty green travels through all levels of the home and forms a playful focal point. Detailing and soft furnishings complete a restrained and sophisticated aesthetic. Parking for two cars, cellar, laundry and abundant storage are located in the basement level, with access to the rear lane.