Harmoniously Engaged – Rose Bay Duet by Stafford Architecture

Harmoniously engaged with its constituent parts and context, Stafford Architecture’s Rose Bay Duet uniquely consists of two contrasting yet complementing homes. Utilising the interior comforts of Poliform, the dual-home project proposes a lifestyle of relaxed and open family living.

Referencing the Sydney Opera House, Rose Bay Duet is likewise settled on the eastern side of the city. Comprised of two houses, the project pays homage to the idea of lyrical, architectural narrative – in particular, the project celebrates the operatic relationship between the two residences, the sloping site, the Opera House and the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge.

Referencing the Sydney Opera House, Rose Bay Duet is likewise settled on the eastern side of the city.

Responding to the familial bond between clients, Stafford Architecture distinguishes the homes of Rose Bay Duet from one another whilst maintaining a connection through materiality and palette. Appointing a specific design team to each house, the architectural practice creates two unique outcomes that expertly balance contrast and harmonisation. Whilst both houses maximise the incredible views available and feature an exterior of simple materiality, one house has a feminine quality whereas its counterpart carries a masculine impression. Externally, curving architecture is juxtaposed with a strong, rectilinear overall form, creating a visual articulation that cuts through the run of concrete slabs shared through both homes.

Collaborating with Poliform, Stafford Architecture enjoyed a smooth creative process. A trusted international brand, Poliform represents high-end Italian craftmanship across 85 countries, consistently imbuing homes with a sense of quality and fine detail. With access to the entire Poliform range, Stafford Architecture creates a package individual to Rose Bay Duet, wherein each house benefits from elegant joinery, textures, finishes and soft furnishings. Expressing a holistic approach to styling, the internal spaces are aesthetically consistent, establishing a comforting atmosphere.

With access to the entire Poliform range, Stafford Architecture creates a package individual to Rose Bay Duet, wherein each house benefits from elegant joinery, textures, finishes and soft furnishings.

The differences between the two homes are intentional and well-executed. Designed to accommodate a larger family in the future, the son’s dwelling offers a dynamic residential experience through a vast array of materials. Poliform products in spessart oak, walnut and black elm form the timber contribution to the home, whilst lacquer finishes – both metal and embossed – are a sophisticated addition. Contrarily, calacatta marble and travertine combine with walnut to complete the diverse material palette of the parents’ home, ensuring the interior reflects a slower-paced and serene lifestyle. In the kitchen, the marble creates a visually-gentle landscape filled with light tones that interacts pleasantly with the streaming sunlight. Uniting the properties is the rooftop terrace that features a striking 180 degree view, capturing views of Bondi through to North Head and acting as a focal meeting point of the project.

Rose Bay Duet is both a well-considered and intuitive feat of interior design and architecture. Stafford Architecture applies the Poliform collection with enthusiasm and intent, crafting two modern homes that rejoice in a sense of connection.