O’Donnell

The project process entailed the design of a dual-function building: a familial home for our client, as well as a viable investment property that would defray the costs of both structures. A principal challenge was to reconcile the two units' similarities while also highlighting their unique characteristics, which were informed by the site's topography. An equally important task was to persuade the client to appreciate the worth of architectural quality in a building typology that is often treated with a cost-minimising mindset, in order to fully realise the brief's goal of achieving a financially neutral outcome.

The semi-detached dwellings are divided by an axis of symmetry running down the centre of the site, mirroring one another. The site presents a duality of orientations, north-south and east-west and the building responds to this by incorporating changes in both the interstitial space between the two dwellings and the internal organisation of each dwelling. The neighbouring semi sold for a record price for the area shortly after completion. The sale did significantly assist in offsetting the costs of the development and proved that spending the money up front on quality does pay off long term

Providing a coastally contextual external and internal design, the semi-detached homes in North Bondi are a successful architectural achievement, achieving both functional and aesthetic goals while setting a record sale price for the area. By prioritising quality and attention to detail in the layout and form of both homes, the client did not have to sacrifice financial return on their investment. These homes prove that design quality and financial gain can coexist in Australian architecture.

-Originally conceived as a boutique multi-residential apartment block in a prime Bondi locale, our client became enamoured with the site’s proximity to the ocean while temporarily staying on site during the design phase. Switching gears, the project transitioned to the design of two semi-detached homes – one for our client and his family and the other an offering for sale. -The residences attune to the natural and cultural context of their Bondi habitat. Architecturally manipulating form, materiality and space, our design prioritises the homes’ exposure to nature’s offerings of light, sea views and breeze. -Presenting a duality of orientations, we have divided the two homes through an axis of symmetry running down the centre of the site. Informed by the site topography, we have aimed to reconcile their similarities while highlighting the unique characteristics of each – resulting in an interconnected yet individuated presence. -A connecting void between the upper and lower levels bathes the brick party wall in light, permeating the interior. Exemplifying our broader design strategy for both homes, the open metal mesh that forms the stair wall strategically silhouettes the activity within; screening and veiling inhabitants without completely obscuring them behind solid walls.