This stunning pavilion style residence was the first of Robert’s personal homes. Set in the Blue Mountains with tree-top views of Birdwood Gully, the site’s odd shape, slope, services, and access posed many challenges. The design solution divided the home’s form into two parallel pavilions, separated by the internal courtyard, and entry foyer link. While orienting a home’s long face to north is optimal, the site’s slope and views to the North West directed the position of the living room pavilion, with the beds facing east. External shading retractable blinds allowed views to be maintained whilst blocking out late afternoon sun in summer. Due to the home’s proximity to the highway, double glazing and insulated sliding doors to the south (street) provided thermal and acoustic protection.

The desire for outdoor living and a connection to nature promoted the use of decks and covered verandahs on 3 sides, whilst the eastern wall supported the growth of a flowering creeper, punctuated by large box windows, providing window seats to the bedrooms. Full length skylights allow star-gazing and natural illumination, and floods the bathroom with light, giving the feeling of an outdoor shower, without compromising privacy from the neighbours.