When Sydney developers and business owners Romio and Rania Georges purchased a waterfront block on Gwawley Bay in Sylvania Waters, they immediately engaged ArtMade Director Sherif Saad to design their new home. Their working relationship spans more than 20 years: a history that includes a dual-occupancy residence in southern Sydney and a commercial project. That longstanding trust made ArtMade the natural choice for this bespoke waterfront architectural project.
Family comes first
Sherif’s design response is a refined two-storey residence comprising four primary suites : one each for Romio, Rania and their two adult children. While the children no longer live at home, the family wanted a layout that allows them to return easily and comfortably.
The planning reflects this intent. All bedrooms are located on the first floor, creating a private upper level. Below, interconnected living, dining and multipurpose zones form a generous ground-floor layout that suits both intimate family time and large gatherings. The design supports multi-generational living, weekend visits and flexible use, which was a key priority for the Georges.
Because the family’s connection to the water is central to their lifestyle, the home’s orientation maximises views to the canal, the private jetty and the boat moored at its edge. A semi-shaded indoor pool provides year-round swimming while remaining visually linked to the surrounding water. Soft reflections from the bay move gently across the interior during the day, adding a subtle sensory quality that changes with the light.
Crescent-curve form — a defining architectural gesture
Working with the site’s unusual proportions, Sherif shaped the building around a crescent-curve geometry. The street frontage is relatively narrow at just 15 metres, but the site opens to more than 40 metres along the canal. The curved form widens toward the water, embracing the aspect while protecting the family’s privacy.
This approach also responds respectfully to neighbouring homes, reducing overshadowing and controlling solar exposure. The family can enjoy the waterfront outlook from different wings of the house at various times of day, often without relying on air conditioning. The curvature and orientation naturally promote ventilation, daylighting and passive thermal comfort, all of which support sustainable residential design principles without overstating them.
Minimalist interiors with purpose
As both architect and interior designer, Sherif adopted a minimalist approach that aligns with ArtMade’s commitment to clarity and material honesty. Large expanses of glazing, skylights, concrete walls and polished concrete floors introduce a restrained, architectural expression.
Throughout the day, light from the water plays across these surfaces, creating gentle patterns and shifting tones. The home feels calm and grounded, yet dynamic. Because the palette is intentionally low-maintenance, it suits a busy, travel-loving family who value durability and simplicity.
A key interior element is the curved staircase. Positioned away from the centre of the home, it provides a discreet vertical connection while complementing the overall architectural language. Its sculptural form adds a moment of quiet drama without overwhelming the surrounding spaces.
Integrated with ArtMade’s design process
This project followed ArtMade’s typical integrated process, beginning with site analysis, client briefing and concept development. From there, Sherif refined the spatial planning, façade expression and interior palette in close conversation with the Georges. Each stage , from early sketches to final detailing, focused on aligning the home with the family’s lifestyle, preferences and long-term needs.
Sustainability was considered in the same way ArtMade approaches all residential projects: through passive design, material selection, orientation and longevity. No single feature is overstated; rather, environmental performance is embedded into the home’s everyday functionality.
A home shaped by understanding
For homeowner Romio Georges, the result speaks for itself. “Sherif really listened, not just to us as a couple, but to our needs as parents,” Romio says. “He understood how we live and how we gather. This house reflects that.”
“From the curved façade to the staircase, there’s a natural flow that feels instantly relaxing. Whether we’re hosting a large group or enjoying a quiet weekend, the home adapts without effort. We simply love living here.”
