Point Nepean House

Carved into a steep undulating landscape on the shores of a man-made lake and overlooking Sorrento Golf Course, the Point Nepean House is an ambitious yet sensitive intervention to its environment. The bold reductive external material palette accentuates the forms commanding presence. The monolithic perimeter wall cuts into the sloping site, a gesture that encapsulates the organic form and provides a protective layer from surrounding neighbours.

Behind the defining outer wall, an undulating timber-clad form emerges upon arrival – its dynamic presence a reflection of the soft meandering edges of the adjoining lake. A series of windows puncture the timber-clad skin creating framed views and bathing the interior with natural light. Upon ascending the grand staircase of staggered concrete blocks and absorbing the warming tones of the timber-clad facade, the journey through a condensed passage into a dark circular foyer, is a vast difference to the moments prior. A glimpse of natural sunlight penetrates the space from the conical skylight creating a sense of drama before transitioning into the light-filled living space.

Compositionally, the floor plan is reminiscent of a clover. Internally, the space is defined into three zones by orderly principal walls. Enclosed within each zone, a series of irregular pods are arranged to confine the amenities of the home. The placement of an internal courtyard allows all bedrooms and living spaces access to natural light, excellent cross ventilation through the home and the opportunity to appreciate the surrounding nature.