Located in the leafy, elevated suburb of Bellevue Hill in Sydney’s east, this project began with an existing heritage cottage. The clients’ brief was to preserve the intimacy and character of the original cottage while opening the home up to natural light, treetops and the pool beyond. “Our vision was to create a house that feels timeless, not trend-driven – one that could hold both memory and change,” says Ashkan Mostaghim, founder of Mostaghim Architects. “It’s about spaces that nurture connection while giving independence when it’s needed.”Thanks to a sloping site, the expansive rear addition remains relatively hidden behind the original facade. The new space opens to a double-height living area where floor-to-ceiling glazing, concrete floors and crisp, white walls amplify the sense of volume and light. Large sliding doors can be opened completely onto the outdoor entertaining area, creating a fluid space that takes advantage of Sydney’s temperate weather and embraces the family’s love of shared living. The rear facade is defined by a rectilinear structure that frames the space – another nod to one of the hallmarks of Californian modernism.
