The house is designed like a sandcastle perched on a hilltop (Visit the house)

Located in the exclusive bay area of ​​Sydney Harbour, Sand Castle is a warm and playful three-story house distinguished by its detailed and soothing waterfront views. Designed as a sandcastle, the estate was designed by Luigi Rosselli Architects and Raffaello Rosselli Architects; the design experience is affectionately described by Luigi Rosselli as a piano sonata – created by four hands. The building sits atop a 45-degree slope; the hilly terrain of the site meant access throughout construction was challenging. Similarly, the area consists of sand, making the ground considerably unstable, presenting numerous challenges throughout the construction process.

As a house designed as a sandcastle, its architecture is connected to the site and surrounding context, allowing the building to stand out from its neighbors. From the street, the house appears as a brick wall, blending into the verdant landscape before it. Access from the street is via a spiral staircase, rising above a retaining wall, and upon reaching the top, you'll have the opportunity to look back at the spectacular view. You can also enter the house via an elevator, constructed by digging a tunnel into the grounds.

The interior space of the sandcastle house is defined by unusual angles, working in contrast to the solid nature of the built form. The spaces find balance, as well as a sculpture, with furniture adding layered elements to the dwelling. The addition of shimmering textures and striking colors creates a fresh interaction, accentuating the house while retaining certain elements of surprise. The styling and interior design by Alwill Interiors create contrasting colors and textures with the natural color palette of the main material, brick. The unusual complexity of the handcrafted bricks intertwines with the smoothness of the planks and honey-infused oak flooring.

The courtyard, bathed in the northern sun, remains the heart of the sandcastle house. It offers an interesting contrast between the steeply sloping front and the flat, level base of the property. Dangar Barin Smith's landscape design enhances the privacy of this retreat. Approximately 99% of the plants used are native; this confirms the garden's role in the land's reclamation after construction.