Architect: TKD Architects + SAOTA
Builder: Pimas Gale Construction
Location: Vaucluse NSW
The Harbour House project in Sydney stands as a testament to international collaboration and innovative structural solutions. The site, born from the demolition of four existing properties, provided a fresh canvas for an ambitious architectural vision.
A global partnership between design firm SAOTA, TKD Architects, and Partridge facilitated the project’s conceptual design through to delivery. Partridge played a crucial role, offering comprehensive design, detailing, and inspection services to ensure compliance with structural, building façade, stormwater management, hydraulic services, and waterproofing membrane requirements.
Numerous engineering challenges emerged throughout the project, requiring creative solutions. Local materials and construction details were adopted to SAOTA’s design concepts effectively.
The ground floor seamlessly integrates with the landscape, featuring a northly aspect with a façade that opens up to the pool garden and Sydney Harbour.
Temporary diversion and re-establishment of existing sewer lines were necessary, accommodated within a dedicated concrete housing above the ground floor slab. An existing sewer main was crossing the amalgamated sites, which required temporary diversion while a dedicated concrete housing was constructed to suspend the sewer in its permanent location, overhead above basement level through the house.
Notable design elements include a dramatic stone-clad canopy at the entryway, supported by strategically tapered steel beams. A suspended reinforced concrete swimming pool adds to the architectural flair, cleverly supported on isolation springs above the mezzanine floor slab.
The first floor boasts a soaring living space with expansive glass and steel framing to maximise Sydney Harbour views. A cantilever awning, designed as a horizontal truss, provides weather protection and structural integrity.
The entertainment terrace features a double cantilever composite concrete slab supported by steel beams, with stone-clad steel and concrete columns providing additional support. Privacy screens crafted from timber blades and a folded copper perforated shading screen add visual interest and structural strength.
Overall, the Harbour House project incorporates international design influences alongside the valuable input of local architects, engineers, and builders. This collaboration ensured the project addressed its challenges with innovative solutions.
Framing for steel-framed bridge.
Lower floor suspended slab reinforcement.
