River-view reverie

Designed by Dean Herald – Rolling Stone Landscapes

From the landscape designer:

The property is situated in the historical and picturesque suburb of Hunters Hill. It is a battle-axe property, on a steeply sloping site with unspoiled views of Parramatta River.

Prior to our engagement, the property was extensively landscaped which included retaining walls, steps, pathways, driveway, swimming pool and established gardens. 

Directly off the southern side of the residence was a large, open paved area with an elevated position looking out toward Parramatta River. 

This area was a neglected & under-utilised outdoor space requiring a much-needed makeover to be more in-keeping with the occupant’s lifestyle needs & requirements.

The design brief was simple, create a modern, outdoor entertaining pavilion that can be enjoyed all year round with family & friends. 

The space was to contain cooking facilities, along with dining and lounge furnishings.

 It was also to be conveniently connected to the existing residence for a seamless link between inside & outside and be sympathetic to the existing architecture so as to avoid a disjunction between the two structures.

Given that it was a battle-axe property, on a steeply sloping site, access, material storage and material handling were always going to be tricky, particularly when the shortest route to the side of the property was through a doorway via the garage, which meant all the steel beams and roofing material had to go this way. 

Ramps and access ways needed to be constructed, including the erection of scaffolding which enabled the different levels to be linked. 

Coupled with this was the historic nature of the suburb and view corridors to Parramatta River – meaning design and construction practices had to be sensitive to all these constraints.

The resulting design is a sleek, modern piece of architecture that sits harmoniously next to the existing residence. 

The island bench is a feature in itself, displaying a large curve at one end replicating the arc of Gladesville Bridge.

The island bench is finished in faux marble, and houses a cooktop, sink & custom-made ice trough. 

A nearby servery bench is finished in the same style as the island bench which contains a bar fridge. 

Behind the island bench is a raised wall, clad in natural stone which has been laid randomly and houses an electric pizza oven. 

The pavilion roof has a thin profile and is connected to the existing roof, serving as an all-weather link between the two structures. 

The ceiling has a natural timber finish adding an inviting, relaxed feel to the wider space.

The overall effect is one of modern luxury, complementing the lifestyle needs of a growing family.

Designed by: Dean Herald – Rolling Stone Landscapes

Story by: Trendsideas

Photography by: All Things Visual