The Gweagal clan of the Tharawal people
New South Wales
Alcheringa is a new home set within a rare remnant of bushland at Yowie Bay, quietly encircled by suburbia but retaining the feeling of a much older landscape. A registered Aboriginal midden, a creek winding through the property and a geologically-significant sandstone outcrop together shaped the direction of the project.
The home has been designed to BAL-40 standards within the footprint of the former 1950s fibro cottage to retain the native landscape. Rather than being seen as an obstacle, the sandstone outcrop was integrated into the structure of the central infinity pool. Two narrow pavilions connected by a central breezeway frame and lead to the pool and bushland, creating a gentle rhythm between public life and private retreat while also supporting passive performance.
Alcheringa is a study in designing for place, with its character, comfort and meaning inseparable from the landscape in which it sits.
We love how the house wraps around the pool and natural rock outcrops, opening the living areas to the yard and surrounding bushland. From most rooms we see trees rather than neighbouring houses, so although we’re in the suburbs it feels like living in a bush setting.
Our study and rear balcony sit within the tree canopy, providing shade, privacy and daily interaction with birdlife. Throughout the day we move easily between indoors, garden and pool.
It’s a relaxing bush retreat where we work from home during the week, then unwind on weekends by the pool or around the campfire.