Modern kitchen with cantilevered concrete island, dark cabinetry, and patterned stool.

A modern kitchen interior featuring a cantilevered concrete island with a sleek design. The island extends outward, creating space for seating with a patterned stool. The background includes dark cabinetry and built-in appliances, while the walls and floor have a stone-like texture.

Story

A seamless interplay of concrete, light, and landscape In the verdant Lower North Shore of Sydney, Manolev Architects have crafted a residence that harmoniously integrates with its sloping site and lush surroundings. The home is a testament to the interplay of robust architectural forms and the natural environment, beginning with a minimalist kitchen that features a dramatic cantilevered island. This sculptural element, with its floating appearance, serves as a focal point, complemented by sleek black cabinetry and textured surfaces of concrete, limestone, and travertine. The design extends beyond the kitchen, with each level of the home opening to gardens and light-filled spaces. The front garden, framed by mature Bangalow palms, creates a serene entrance sequence, while a floating concrete deck blurs the line between architecture and landscape. Inside, a double-height living room captures light through expansive glazing, offering views of both the front garden and a secluded fern garden. The rear of the house features a swimming pool strategically positioned to maximize sunlight and privacy, seamlessly integrated with the living spaces. A series of concrete and timber staircases connect the home's multiple levels, introducing warmth and visual continuity. Skylights and large windows invite daylight to animate the interiors, highlighting the tactile quality of the materials and maintaining a visual connection to the surrounding gardens.

Design Highlights

Cantilevered kitchen island as a sculptural centerpiece Front garden with mature palms and a floating concrete deck Double-height living room with full-height glazing Strategically positioned swimming pool for sunlight and privacy Concrete and timber staircases connecting multiple levels Skylights and picture windows enhancing natural light

Key Facts

Feature Detail
Architect Manolev Architects
Location Sydney, Australia
Key Materials Concrete, Limestone, Travertine
Unique Element Cantilevered kitchen island
Landscape Integration Mature palms, Fern garden

Technical Summary

Finishes

  • Flooring: Limestone tiled floors are used throughout the interior.
  • Walls: Concrete walls and travertine wall cladding are used throughout the living spaces.

Materials

  • Concrete — Used for walls, kitchen island, and exterior facade.
  • Glass — Used for large windows and glazing panels.
  • Wood — Used for staircases and some interior elements.
  • Limestone — Used for flooring.
  • Travertine — Used for wall cladding.

Construction / Systems

  • Structural System: The house features a concrete structural system with cantilevered elements.
  • Facade System: Concrete facade with large glass windows.

Products

  • Not specified

Palette / Lighting

  • Colors: black, light stone, dark wood
  • Lighting: Natural light is maximized through large windows and skylights, creating a bright and airy atmosphere.

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