When you’re working with a sloping Red Hill site, you’ve got two choices: fight the terrain or make it work for you. This family chose option two, and the result is a split level contemporary home that turns a challenging block into its biggest asset.
The result? A single level sanctuary where hand-pitched stone walls meet soaring timber ceilings, and every space flows effortlessly into the next.
Making the Most of What You’ve Got
Peter and Vinnie came with architectural plans for a complete knockdown rebuild. The challenge? Council required the existing carport to stay and eventually integrate into the new build. Not ideal, but not impossible either.
The site slopes naturally toward the northeast, which became an opportunity rather than an obstacle. Enter the home at garage level through hand-pitched stone pillars and a modern slat gate. From there, timber stairs lead you down into the heart of the home.
A Home That Works for Real Family Life
With young children in the picture, this design needed to balance together time with separate zones. The solution sits in the split level layout.
Downstairs, the living and kitchen area opens completely to the outdoors through large glass doors. High ceilings and expansive windows let natural light flood in during winter while keeping things cool in summer. The butler’s pantry tucks behind the kitchen, accessible but out of sight.
Step outside and you’re into the outdoor living zone. The north easterly aspect means the pool and built-in BBQ area get sun when you want it. Timber decking, glass pool fencing, and established trees create privacy without closing things in.
Upstairs, separate wings give everyone their space. One wing for the kids, another more secluded zone for the parents. Bedrooms connect to the greenery through large windows, making the bushland setting part of everyday life.
Details That Make the Difference
Walk through this home and you’ll notice the thoughtfulness. Timber flooring transitions seamlessly into tiles in bathrooms and carpet in bedrooms. Built-in power outlets sit flush in the timber floors. Glass balustrades with timber handrails keep sight lines clean while adding warmth.
Projects like this show that challenging sites can deliver better results than flat blocks. When you work with the terrain instead of against it, you end up with spaces that feel natural, flow effortlessly, and actually suit the way families live.