Sorrento House

This multi-generational beach house rests carefully on a vegetated site in Sorrento.

The built form follows the lie of the land and is orientated to take in the view. The ground floor is anchored to the undulating landscape while the upper level extends out into the tree canopy, perched up high to capture the sea breeze. A careful calculation of tree roots and footings enabled the internal living spaces to be brought into close proximity with the surrounding landscape. This sense of living amongst the trees is enhanced by large glass panels and receding frames that create an almost non-existent threshold between interior and exterior. From this vantage point, there are endless views of the sky, the landscape and coastline beyond. The project takes a pragmatic approach to planning, understanding the requirements of a multi-generational household. Bedrooms and bathrooms have been organised as self-contained modules so that all of the children and grandchildren can comfortably stay.