Seaforth Family Home

Georgina Wilson Architect

ARCHITECT
Georgina Wilson Architect

STRUCTURAL ENGINEER
Harrison & Morris Consultancy Pty Ltd

MANUFACTURERS
Gosford Quarries, James Hardie, Jardan, Jetmaster, Astro Versailles, Duomo, Icon, Nuevue, The Wood Room

PHOTOGRAPHS
Murray Fredericks

AREA
280 M²

YEAR
2019

LOCATION
Seaforth, Australia

CATEGORY
Houses

Text description provided by architect.

Owners Damien and Belinda Wilde wanted to create a relaxed oasis where they could both entertain and escape, but with three school-aged sons practicality was also a priority.

The architect's solution was to create a series of terraces and rooms that can be used for socialising or retreat.

This resort-like configuration means teenagers can throw a pool party while Mum reads a book and Dad has a beer with a friend, all within their own spaces.

"We never feel like we're living on top of each other," says Belinda.

Significant changes to the home; A small series of rooms set back from the view was transformed into an open-plan kitchen, living and dining area that makes the most of the harbour aspect and is flooded with natural light.

The original entrance was awkward, messy and featured a series of nonsensical ramps; this was streamlined to create a clear path for visitors.

A new storey was added comprising a master bedroom, study and bathroom.

A frameless glass pool fence replaced an old-fashioned one that blocked the harbour view.

Thoughtful details;
The architect designed a custom banquette beneath a picture-frame window in the open-plan dining room so the family can enjoy meals with a view year-round, no matter the weather.

An entrance vestibule with elegant storage cabinets hides the clutter of shoes and bags. A frameless corner window in the bedroom gives an uninterrupted vista across the water from the upper level.

White baton fencing around the perimeter is used as a design feature to tie separate elements of the build together.