NSW
Newcastle
The Killcare Heights Escarpment House replaces an aged holiday home, seamlessly integrating coastal living with durability and environmental sensitivity.
Positioned on the edge of a rock escarpment on an elevated site, it balances simplicity and resilience, welcoming sandy feet and capturing panoramic views.
The design is modern yet respectful of neighbouring homes and is softened by raw, textured materials and native landscaping throughout.
Mindful of sustainability, the all-electric home utilizes energy efficient glazing, natural ventilation, ample thermal mass, substantial solar and rainwater harvesting, and a battery bank w EV charging.
Simple pavilion forms allow ocean views throughout, break down building bulk & ensure light & ventilation permeate deep into the interior. Clever integration of disciplines hides services, structure, and addresses bushfire protection seamlessly.
The blackened entry provides a precursor to the spectacular views celebrated throughout the home, embodying a visually stunning and sustainable coastal retreat.
The Escarpment House strikes a balance of aesthetic appeal with street-facing privacy, presenting an exterior that conceals the stunning coastal views that dominate the interior experience once invited inside. The planning focusses upon celebrating the unique location, layering spaces to provide outlook and protection as needed.
The detailing is skillfully resolved, discreetly accommodating the complex fire protection systems, whilst the material palette and selections serve to draw the eye to the integrated green spaces and ocean beyond. The home harmonises form and function, and the robust materials suggest a sense of enduing habitation.
…we wanted to tell you how thrilled we are with the house and how well it flows and works.
That only happens because of the care and thought that each of you put into the build.
The craftsmanship from all trades has been outstanding and it is more than we could have hoped for in our home.The way the front deck flows into the living area and into the internal courtyard is fantastic.
We have had lots of people to stay over this period and it has never felt crowded. There are so many good spaces…
Client perspective
The Australian Institute of Architects acknowledges First Nations peoples as the Traditional Custodians of the lands, waters, and skies of the continent now called Australia.
We express our gratitude to their Elders and Knowledge Holders whose wisdom, actions and knowledge have kept culture alive.
We recognise First Nations peoples as the first architects and builders. We appreciate their continuing work on Country from pre-invasion times to contemporary First Nations architects, and respect their rights to continue to care for Country.