Australian architecture firm Alexander & Co has transformed a coastal residence in Sydney to better accommodate family living. Prior to the renovation, the five-bedroom home featured a fragmented layout that was not conducive to the needs of its two young owners and their three children. Many rooms were isolated from the stunning views of the garden and the ocean, limiting the connection to the beautiful surroundings.
The design team was tasked with creating a space that would serve as a “functional engineer of family life.” They focused on carving out distinct areas for both activity and play, while also incorporating quieter, more serene spaces for adults to unwind. Central to this new vision is a spacious kitchen that serves as the heart of the home.
The kitchen boasts cabinetry crafted from warm American oak, complemented by lighter European oak panels adorning the ceiling. The floor features striking pieces of Grigio Firma, Grigio Lana, and Carrara marble, arranged in a jagged pattern that adds visual interest. Residents can gather around the central island for meals or enjoy the cozy breakfast nook nestled against a large concave window.
This unique window design pays homage to the P&O architectural style, a modernist trend that gained popularity in 1930s Sydney, inspired by the sleek curves of Pacific and Orient-line cruise ships. Two elegantly arched doors lead from the kitchen to the garden, where an inviting alfresco seating area awaits. Additionally, a new swimming pool has been integrated into an excavation pit that was previously part of the home’s driveway.
The ground floor of Pacific House also features a rumpus room designed for games, parties, and recreation, alongside a sophisticated dining area adorned in neutral tones. A spacious living area showcases Mario Bellini’s Camaleonda sofa from B&B Italia, offering a breathtaking view of the ocean waves.
To enhance the playful and graphic aesthetic, an Afghan rug with abstract patterns and a pair of triangular marble coffee tables have been introduced, contributing to the lively atmosphere that the architects aimed to create in this vibrant space.
The atmosphere shifts subtly on the upper floor, where spaces take on a more subdued tone, accessible by a beautifully crafted oakwood staircase. In the principal bedroom, adorned with a charming P&O-style curved window, the walls are finished in a sleek concrete, creating a modern yet inviting feel.
In the bathroom, a striking contrast emerges with surfaces clad in grey terrazzo and marble, which stand out against the intricate pattern of the grey mosaic flooring. This interplay of textures adds a layer of sophistication, enhancing the overall aesthetic of the space.