https://www.architectureanddesign.com.au/project/sylvanian-waters - Published
When Sydney developers and business owners Romio and Rania Georges purchased a water-side block in Sylvania Waters’ Gwawley Bay, they were quick to engage architect and ArtMade Director Sherif Saad. Romio, Rania and Sherif go back some 20 years — in the mid-2000’s Sherif designed a dual-occupancy development for the couple, and later a commercial project. Testament to the success of those projects, the Georges and Sherif went on to forge a strong professional connection.
Family first
Sherif’s design for this latest project is a large, two-storey home featuring four primary suites for Romio, Rania and their two adult children. Although the offspring no longer live at home, Romio and Rania wanted to ensure they could easily be accommodated whenever they choose to visit.
By locating the bedrooms on the first floor and providing interconnected multi-purpose areas below, the design easily accommodates private spaces and communal zones for large groups of family and friends to gather.
The family’s love of the water is also reflected in the design. The home’s orientation prioritises views out to the canal and the site’s private jetty and moored vessel. Meanwhile, the addition of a semi-shaded indoor pool allows for comfortable year-round swimming.
Cresent moon curvature — hero of the design
Sherif’s design makes the most of the site’s configuration. “At 15metres, the frontage is quite narrow but the block widens to 43metres at the back — providing a view out to the water,” Sherif explains. “The design is shaped like a crescent moon that widens to the water and embraces those views whilst also providing privacy for the family.”
The curved design helps constrain the building from overly shadowing neighbouring properties, whilst also providing sun protection and privacy for the family. “At any time of day and at any season, there will always be a wing of the home from which they can comfortably enjoy the water views without relying on air conditioning.”
Responsible for both the architecture and interior design of the home, Sherif opted for a minimalist approach to the interiors. “The home features large expanses of glazed windows, skylights, concrete walls and polished concrete flooring,” Sherif explains. “During the day, the reflections from the water dance across the walls and floors — it’s a very dynamic space that needs little embellishment to shine. A restrained approach was the most elegant option.”
Sherif adds the choice of materials was also, purposefully, low maintenance for this busy, travel-loving family.
Another of the interior’s key features is a grand, curved staircase. “It’s oriented away from the centre of the home so as not to dominate the design but, rather, to enable the family to discreetly enter or exit the main living areas,” Sherif says. Like all elements of this design, the staircase beautifully balances restraint with high impact.
Homeowner Romio Georges agrees. “Sherif took the time to really understand what we need from our home — as both a couple and as parents,” Romio said. “This is a place where we feel equally comfortable hosting large groups or enjoying some respite and recreation with just the two of us!”
“Every element of the design has impressed us, from the curvature of the building itself to the curved staircase … there’s a flow and ease about the home that feels instantly relaxing and welcoming. We simply love living here.”
