Mosman Jigsaw Piece

This strategic renovation in Mosman utilises the steep site to provide for a double garage with landscaped roof terrace. With majority of the interventions compacted at the front, the carefully designed insertion on a sloping block optimises vantage points, resolves circulation issue, improves the street frontage and pays tribute to the retained existing features.

Just a short stroll away from the scenic Mosman Bay Wharf, Beatrice and Steven’s residence presents an exciting, yet complex challenge. While its hilltop location looks over the city, the sloping site could be better used. In addition, the existing circulation is problematic, with no direct internal access from the garage to the house.

Our clients were initially suggesting complete demolition and rebuilt. Instead, PWA proposed a more cost effective, and environmentally sustainable solution, echoing our ethos ‘work with what you’ve got’.

A terrace level is inserted into the subfloor, between the garage and upper storeys. The previously unused space now houses a generous laundry, storage and an exercise room. Panoramic glazing connects the interiors to a tranquil roof garden, shaded by an established Jacaranda. Together with new internal stairs, this jigsaw puzzle piece successfully fits into a tight space. Further, the fully renovated kitchen and living room are now front-facing. Taking advantage of the hilltop site, they open up to distant city views and the landscaped terrace.

We are excited to see how this ‘jigsaw piece’ will be fit into the bungalow, for Beatrice and Steven to have a better organised, sustainable family home.