The site is set on the grounds of an old homestead, the old house had been recently moved to one corner of the site by the clients before approaching Sheppard & Rout – this made for an awkward-shaped site.  The setting for the new house provided a northern stream frontage and large, established trees to the north.  The clients wanted a bold, modern design with plenty of ‘wow’ factor.  A covered pool and gym area was included in the brief, as was the want for large window openings, tall spaces and lots of elbow room. 

The house responds to the site by spreading along the full width of the site, opening up to the north and allowing the northern landscaping of the site to feel like an extension of the house as an outdoor room nestled behind the northern trees. 

Tall blades of motorized pivoting translucent glass across the north elevation provide framed views of the trees, whilst also giving privacy, wind protection and filtered light effects to the internal spaces.  Accents of metallic bronze and cedar enliven the exterior elevations, as do the marbled stone facades. 

The interiors are filled with exotic marble and stone finishes, including a spiral staircase with curved glass which forms the centrepiece of the entry hall.  The interior is full of double-height spaces, concealed lighting effects and highly detailed joinery.  Sheppard & Rout worked closely with the clients to ensure walls and spaces were customised to suit their array of particular furnishings and art pieces.

Extensive garaging integrated into the building form formed part of the brief, as did an impressive entry court that allows an overall impression of the house to be seen upon entry.  Entry to the house is gained by crossing a floor of marble that appears to float over water ponds on either side.