Modernist Clean Lines – Mosman Residence by Carr

Words by Bronwyn Marshall
Photography by Ross Honeysett

Focusing on light and quality of materiality, Mosman Residence sees Carr transform the once decorative home into a modernist architectural expression.

Located in Sydney’s North Shore, amongst a similarly curated collection of modern homes, Mosman Residence sees the transformation of the home’s previous wearied bones into an expression of clean lines and considered materiality. By focusing on light and the quality of its comprising parts, the former shell has been given a new life. Expressing with restraint the curated methodology of bringing parts together Carr imbues the resulting form with an inherent robustness and timelessness.

By focussing on light and the quality of its comprising parts, the former shell has been given a new life.

On a sloping site, Mosman Residence sits elevated high on a hill. Taking cues from its neighbours, and through an analysis of the site and the client’s needs, Carr has brought a sense of focus to the home, which was previously burdened by an excess of decoration. With the application of a characteristically ‘Sydney’ simplicity, the cool effortlessness of the palette, and the clean lines of the resulting form, the house is reborn as a contemporary three-bedroom home.

Taking cues from its neighbours, and through an analysis of the site and the client’s needs, Carr has brought a sense of focus to the home, which was previously burdened by an excess of decoration.

Capturing generous vistas from its large openings, operable timber screens sit as an active element of the house. These six fins that sit atop the upper level facing the street allow for privacy and solar protection, while also adding an element of warmth through the use of timber. There is a purpose to the rhythmic order of the resulting forms created both internally and externally. Meanwhile, the bold use of steel through the main vertical connection of levels expresses function, and also creates a concentrated sculptural void around which all other functions radiate.

Carr have brought a sophistication and simplicity to a home that was in dire need, and the resulting Mosman Residence now sees a calm and reductive haven created through an emphasis on materiality, light and volume.

Mosman Residence sees contrasting materiality of cool oak timber boards come together with the robust and bold nature of the black steel, which is then complemented with a clean monochromatic palette throughout. Floor to-ceiling-glazing allows for a clear and uninterrupted connection between the internal and external areas, and an added engagement with the landscape.

Mosman Residence sees Carr transform the once decorative home into a modernist architectural expression.

Carr has brought a sophistication and simplicity to a home in dire need, and the resulting Mosman Residence now sees a calm and reductive haven created through an emphasis on materiality, light and volume.

Carr has brought a sophistication and simplicity to a home in dire need, and the resulting Mosman Residence now sees a calm and reductive haven created through an emphasis on materiality, light and volume.