Project: Hideaway House
Architecture: Studio Prineas
Location: North Shore, Sydney, Australia
Year: 2024
Photo Credits: Chris Warnes
The Hideaway House by Studio Prineas is a thoughtful transformation of a 1920s Californian bungalow. Conceived as a retreat for homeowners who share a love of music, wine, and gardening, the project blends architectural clarity with atmospheric richness.
The Brief
The clients envisioned a home that felt both intimate and uplifting. They wanted spaces that could embrace their garden views, support daily rituals, and reflect their personal passions. Consequently, Studio Prineas approached the renovation with a clear goal: to create an airy sanctuary that balances openness with privacy.
The Design Response
The house’s previous ensuite renovation had already introduced circular motifs, monochromatic finishes, and a deep steel window reveal. These details became a springboard for the new design. As a result, the architectural language now runs consistently throughout the entire home, creating continuity and harmony.
The living area expands dramatically into the original roof envelope, taking advantage of the lofty ceiling height. Skylights, strategically placed, draw natural light deep into the interiors, reducing the reliance on artificial illumination. At the center, a monochromatic kitchen anchors the plan, serving as both a gathering place and a visual focal point. In this way, Hideaway House demonstrates how subtle interventions can elevate the character of a historic bungalow while ensuring modern comfort.
Connecting with the Garden
Studio Prineas emphasized a strong relationship between the interior and the beloved garden outside. Circular portals and a custom window-seat aperture frame views like living artworks, encouraging moments of pause and reflection. Here, the owners can listen to music, savor a glass of wine, and fully immerse themselves in the tranquility of their outdoor space.
The Atmosphere
Ultimately, Hideaway House is more than a renovation—it is a mood. Dark and light tones create striking contrasts, while the monochromatic palette enhances depth and texture. The result is a retreat that feels both serene and dramatic, a hideaway animated by material richness and emotional resonance.
