Dancing on the Ceiling
Perched atop the cliffs of Dover Heights, a former ‘kit home’ has been transformed by Decus into a playful, sculptural family residence.
Dancing on the Ceiling takes its name from the expressive atmosphere now filling a once simple shell. “The architecture itself was quite boxy, all straight lines, steel and glass, but the site was incredible,” recalls Alexandra Donohoe Church, Decus founder and managing director. “From the beginning, we knew we needed to inject a sense of fun and energy, because the clients were just that – footloose, fancy-free and full of personality.”
The brief was for a home that was expressive, tailored and designed for entertaining. Decus responded by softening the architecture’s rigid geometry with sculptural curves and layering rich materials throughout. “The curved staircase set the tone, and we carried it through with details like a curved island bench, sculptural joinery and even subtle touches in the powder room alcove,” says Donohoe Church.
Upon arrival, a dramatic stone floor, scattered in a confetti-like pattern, establishes rhythm and energy. It is reminiscent of high-fashion boutiques such as Celine in London. “Achieving three-millimetre grout lines with that level of precision was quite an exercise, but the result feels celebratory, like you’ve walked into a party,” says Donohoe Church. The previous staircase was replaced with a sweeping elliptical stair, the home’s “principal dancer”. It softens the architecture’s angularity and provides a dramatic central focus.
Furniture, art and decor are curated with an emphasis on theatricality and tactility. A rippled glass dining table sits with leopard-print chairs, while a timber screen mediates between ocean-facing living spaces and private zones. An existing emerald-toned bar became a springboard for a rich, expressive palette echoed across fabrics, stone and bespoke finishes.
Elsewhere, material choices maintain energy and contrast, reflecting the studio’s intuitive design approach. “The media room has a deep burgundy palette that feels completely separate from the rest of the house, but that was intentional. It’s a hidden, cocoon-like space, designed to feel brooding and serious,” explains Donohoe Church.
Upstairs, private zones were reconfigured into adult and children’s wings. The primary suite is a retreat featuring a bespoke ruched leather bedhead, integrated side tables and directional brass lighting, while the ensuite features Calacatta Viola marble and graphic stone floors. Children’s bedrooms explore distinct tonal narratives. Soft pinks and terracotta for the daughter and inky greys and greens for the son, layered with playful cabinetry and patterns. “We composed each room to reflect the unique character of each family member, ensuring everyone could put their stamp on their spaces,” says Donohoe Church.
Throughout, Decus layers colour, texture and bespoke detailing to create rhythm and contrast, balancing structure with spontaneity. The wraparound deck and ocean-facing orientation frame spectacular views of Sydney’s coastline, tying the interiors to the dramatic natural backdrop.
Interior design by Decus. Build by Benson Karney. Styling by Joseph Gardner.
