New South Wales
Tree Island is a family home whose airy verticality transcends the limitations of its tight footprint and heritage context, using planning constraints as direct design opportunities. Elegantly balancing the protection of an existing cottage with the freedom to climb up against the adjacent warehouse conversion, its dramatic section is as rare as it is expansive, making of the most of its narrow inner-city site.
A breath-taking, light-filled void at the centre of the home unites the living, dining, and kitchen areas, playing host to a glorious fig tree planted in the kitchen island itself. Illuminated by a long, north-facing skylight, this double-height space cradles the most essential functions of its young family’s life as it brings the garden inside.
Not a single person has visited our home without saying ‘Wow’ as they walk through the curved passage into the kitchen, catching their first glimpse of the tree. We wanted a functional family home that had wow factor without being overtly trendy and Carter Williamson nailed it.
Our new home has made family life so much more enjoyable – the kitchen is functional and a dream to cook and entertain in. The multiple living spaces give us room to live and play together or apart without being confined to bedrooms, whilst the central void makes the home feel connected and convivial.
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.
