On a site that is both idyllic and constrained in size, House Taurus by Durbash Block Jagger and Richard Stanisich is a combination of villa and infrastructure, both introverted and open, with views both generous and focused.
Sitting directly adjacent to Sydney Harbour and private beach, the site is marked by a dramatic change in level from street to the lowest level, through a narrow panel, and exaggerated slot harbour views. Overlooking the site to the north is an oversized building that blocks the sun. The neighbouring buildings to the east are also substantially higher and overlook the rear of the site.
The optimal response to these conditions required a clever and unconventional design response. The two cars designated for the house are accommodated in a car stacker that is concealed entirely below ground. With the cars hidden, arrival to the house is a sculptural sequence and experience that takes the best advantage of the surrounding beauty.
Upon reaching the house, a lift drops 18 meters to a 35-meter long entry hall below. Arched and sculpted, this entry hall exaggerated the perspective towards framed views of the harbour. The hall is further characterized by circular skylights that illuminate the space.
Upper floors are formed in solid concrete with a soft texture and precisely framed openings and a double-height central courtyard that brings in ample light while affording privacy to interior space.
The living room is located as closely as possible to the beach. Sitting on a cultured and landscaped stone base, the level of the living room was lowered by 4-meters to create a direct connection with the beach and harbour via landscape stairs.
Finally, capturing the romance of the site and feeling of swimming from rock to water, into and out of bright sunlight, a 16.6-meter lap pool bridges the stone wall at the harbour edge and the house. The pool always has a sunny end, a partly shaded middle and a cave or grotto with reflected light.
