Woven Expansion – The Gully Penthouse by Alexander &CO.
Increasing the scale and liveability of an existing top-floor apartment, Alexander &CO. reimagine The Gully Penthouse through a contemporary yet timeless lens, preparing it for the coming chapters. The studio weaves a series of cohesive interventions that seamlessly blend the existing with the new and optimises views out to the beach whilst expanding the interior volumes.
Within an existing 1970s apartment building, The Gully Penthouse occupies the uppermost floor and, despite its generous scale, required expanding. In response to how homes are occupied today and to capitalise on the potential of the surrounds, the red-brick residence is opened internally whilst an additional sub-frame extends the covered area to create another roof terrace, bedroom and bathroom. Located in Tamarama and overlooking the Tamarama Valley, the home’s spaces are grounded with an earth-toned palette to communicate a textured and natural approach.
The addition extends outward and upward to encompass an additional landscaped garden area. The dedicated outdoor terrace acts as an extension of the home, allowing for a greater connection to nature whilst bringing in natural light and ventilation. The original entry level was reworked and the additional floor integrates the new roof terrace and a dedicated main suite. Comprising four generous bedrooms and three accompanying bathrooms, a familiar coastal feeling remains; yet through a nuanced and detailed rigour, the residence feels crafted and distinctive.
Navigating the issue of neighbours overlooking the home, the proposal to extend upward allows the additional floor to become its own private retreat. The living area features a fireplace, bar, sauna, robe, private garden and bedroom to become an elevated and enriching destination. The curation of the existing lower level and its expanded flowing connections allows for more extensive views that were previously obstructed. Emphasising the new openness, the stairs are a sculptural element in their own right and allow for uninterrupted light and sightlines.
Despite the appearance of delicate detailing, The Gully Penthouse embodies robustness and low-maintenance in alignment with the changing needs of family life. Alexander &CO. introduces moments of refinement to heighten the interaction with tactile elements and ensure an enduring and relevant approach was created.
