Inspired by Hollywood Hills residences, this house floats among the majestic Hoop Pines, offering a living experience deeply connected to the outdoors. Located on a hill just a three-minute drive from Suffolk Park Beach, this three-bedroom home boasts a compact yet efficient footprint of 220 square meters internally, maximizing space while preserving a sense of openness.
Designed for ‘Zocco', the ‘personal trainer’ to many Hollywood stars, the house is playful and has many ’tongue in cheek’ references to its LA cousins. Beyond the standard program, the house has a large gym, wellness area with a sauna and ice bath, and an outdoor training platform to make sure this ripped body stays in full ’shred mode!'
The house design centres around an intimate courtyard on the ground floor, which serves as the heart of the home. This courtyard not only provides a private outdoor space but also anchors the design, bringing an additional layer of landscape into the living environment. The surrounding vegetation is drawn inside through a dark material palette, creating a cocoon-like atmosphere that makes the inhabitants feel as though they are living within the treetops.
A notable architectural feature is the blade wall at the entry, designed for privacy while anchoring the house. This wall ensures that the home maintains a sense of seclusion despite its open design. It also helps to establish a clear delineation between the exterior and interior spaces, providing a sense of security and groundedness.
The open-plan living area faces north, allowing ample natural light and facilitating natural ventilation throughout the house. The lower floor is dedicated to practical and guest-oriented spaces, including guest rooms, a laundry, and a gym, ensuring that the more private and utilitarian areas are easily accessible while maintaining a separation from living spaces. Ascending to the first floor, one is greeted by the main living areas, which include the kitchen, living room, and dining spaces. These areas are designed to maximize the stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The kitchen is a chef’s dream, equipped with modern appliances and ample counter space, perfect for both everyday meals and entertaining guests.
One of the most striking features of the first floor is the pool, which is placed to take full advantage of the escarpment views. The first floor houses the master bedroom, designed as a private sanctuary for the client. Positioned to take in all the views, the master bedroom offers a tranquil retreat with a direct connection to its surroundings. Having the bedroom, kitchen, living, and dining room on one floor ensures that the client can enjoy the expansive views from all the areas, making daily life both luxurious and convenient. The use of dark materials in House Zocco plays a significant role in its design. The dark palette brings the surrounding greenery into sharp focus, making the vibrant outdoor landscape an integral part of the interior experience. Stack Bond brickwork adds a sense of solidity and permanence to the structure. In contrast, timber is used throughout the interior to create warmth and a welcoming atmosphere.
House Zocco is a perfect embodiment of modern, nature-integrated living. With its strategic layout, natural ventilation, stunning views, the addition of a blade wall for privacy and groundedness, and the careful use of materials, this home is a sanctuary that provides the best of both worlds: a deep connection to nature and the convenience of suburban living.
