Gymea Beach House | True North Architects

The design is inspired by the Gymea Lilies in the National Park behind the site – the house reaching upward and outward to the light and views of Fingal Bay. The stepped floor levels maximise space on the upper storey through the use of large cantilevers, creating an organic and dynamic design. A balance is achieved for a potentially top-heavy home on a very modest plinth. Bush views looking back up the hillside can be enjoyed whilst expansive views of Fingal Bay are ever-present. Wide eaves and the stepped floor plans provide protection for the building on each level. The narrow upper floor makes for excellent cross-ventilation and large areas of performance glazing mitigate heat-loss. Thermal Mass is employed in the lower two levels to assist in regulating temperatures within the home. Winter sun is tangibly extended to upper living areas before it is lost to the shadow of the hillside.