Trincomalee by Richard Unsworth and Studio U.C
A restoration effort that encompasses the entire site, Trincomalee pays homage to traditional Australian timber architecture. Richard Unsworth of Studio U.C breathes new life into the home and forges a more meaningful connection with the surrounding habitat, blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor spaces.
Richard Unsworth, both owner and designer, approaches the project with a broad perspective. Drawing inspiration from the surrounding natural landscape, he says, “I looked to the dominant spotted gum woodland nearby.” This process has unfolded over seven years. “Although it’s been a gentle process,” he reflects, “it’s still very much in progress.” Richard describes a process of observing the habitat, removing invasive weeds and replanting with native species. “Additionally,” he notes, “it’s been a journey of also seeing what comes up from the ground … and then editing that new emergent growth as time moves on.” Located in Lovett Bay within Pittwater, the juxtaposition of water and lush greenery also contributes to a sense of balance.
The historic residence, dating back to the 1890s, underwent renovations in the 1980s. Richard aimed to leave his imprint on the property while preserving its historical roots. “I needed the home to feel warm, inviting and nurturing for the soul,” he says. “A place to retreat to for solitude and also as somewhere to come together with loved ones.” While he cherishes his personal collection of vintage pieces gathered over time, Richard did establish one clear rule. “There is a general ban on brown, as we have enough of that [in the house itself],” he says. “Although we didn’t touch the house structurally, the colours in the interior and art are mostly drawn from nature – earthy tones or the odd splash of hot pink that takes to the gaudy spring flowers of the azaleas that we inherited on the south side of the house.”
While having a garden may be considered advantageous by many, for Richard, it was not just a perk but rather a privilege, as well as a significant attraction to the property itself. “In some ways, the work there [at Trincomalee] has been about simplifying the garden and allowing the trees to become the focal point. I want the garden to be able to sit effortlessly in the landscape, to help us feel like we are part of it, part of nature itself.” With a deliberate pace, the team approached every element of the site with a shared spirit of discovery. Unearthing 130-year-old sandstone beneath overgrown gardens revealed how the previous owners – the original custodians – had envisioned layers within the landscape.
Through a process that unveiled not only layers within the dwelling but also within the landscape, Trincomalee is prepared for future chapters. Having observed the site for many years, Richard Unsworth and Studio U.C respond respectfully, ensuring that the resulting home feels intrinsic and a seamless evolution from what previously existed.
Interior design by Richard Unsworth and Studio U.C. Landscape design by Garden Life. Landscape construction by Land Forms.
