Clontarf House has been featured in the April issue of Belle magazine, in a six-page editorial titled Lap of the Gods, written by Judy Pascoe with photography by Romello Pereira and styling by Jack Milenkovic.

 

Set on the northern shore of Sydney’s Middle Harbour, the residence explores a relaxed yet highly resolved expression of waterfront living. Designed as a contemporary coastal sanctuary, the project balances expansive entertaining spaces with a restrained material palette and meticulous detailing. The result is a home that feels both quietly luxurious and deeply connected to its remarkable setting.

 

The editorial highlights the clarity of the architectural concept: a sweeping open living space running the width of the site, framing uninterrupted harbour views and opening directly onto waterside terraces. This singular volume required an ambitious structural approach, allowing the main living level to span across the site without intermediate supports while maintaining a calm and minimal architectural language.

 

Director Phillip Mathieson explains that "despite the short distance to the CBD, this part of the harbour has a uniquely tranquil, holiday feel. It’s close enough to the ocean while affording stillness protected by the adjacent headland.”

Throughout the home, subtle textures and carefully layered materials create a refined yet relaxed atmosphere. Pale terrazzo flooring, sandblasted timbers, linen drapery and patinated metals establish a calm backdrop for a selection of quietly sculptural furniture pieces. As the article notes, the design approach is deliberately restrained — “a whisper rather than a shout” — allowing the qualities of light, water and landscape to take precedence.

 

Entertaining was central to the brief. The main living spaces extend seamlessly to a waterside terrace and rooftop entertaining area, while a highly functional kitchen — designed to professional standards — supports gatherings large and small. The upper level bedrooms maintain the same sense of calm and connection to the harbour, with the main suite conceived as a quiet retreat overlooking the water.

Ultimately, the success of the project lies in how naturally it accommodates daily life.

 

“Ours is a home not just to be admired, but to be lived in and enjoyed.”
— Owner

 

The full feature appears in the April issue of Belle magazine.