Project: Higher Ground House
Architects: Stafford Architecture
Team: Bronwyn Litera, Bruce Stafford, Lucia Ayub
Structural Engineer: NB Consulting
Contractor: Adam Van Der Wallen
Interior Architecture: Stafford Architecture
Landscape Designer: Nest Gardens – Vanessa Sutton
Location: Seaforth, Sydney, Australia
Photo Credits: Tom Ferguson
We are proud to acknowledge the traditional custodians of the land upon which Higher Ground sits.
Higher Ground House floats over a rocky sandstone outcrop with views over Middle Harbour. The empty corner site presented a rare set of opportunities to create a family home that celebrates the beautiful red gums and unique rock formation of Seaforth. A concrete blade wall acts as the spine of the building, separating the grounded private wing that hugs the site, from the more stated communal wing that hovers lightly above the rock.
Positioned in response to the rocky outcrop, a natural pallet of raw materials is utilised, off-form concrete, oak timber boards, copper and charcoal standing seam cladding with internal accents of brass. From the street frontage the vertical spotted gum screens mimic the rhythm of the trees, with a sharp-edged roof accent to highlight the sensibility to the rock below. The internal spaces are bright and spacious, using deep framed windows to create a place for refuge and connection with nature. Carefully considered curves in the joinery and textured finishes bring softness and playfulness to the bold architecture.
