Located in Dee Why, part of the Northern Beaches Council, the brief called for a home that would respond to a challenging site and stand out as a piece of architectural strength and elegance. The property sits on a battle-axe block with steep gradients, large rocky outcrops and elevated eastern ocean views.
Playoust Churcher’s approach was to embrace the site’s raw character and use it as the foundation of a bold but sensitive design. The solution: three “floating” steel-frame pavilions, each positioned on the natural rock outcrops, with minimal disturbance to the site’s geology and vegetation.
These pavilions were designed off-site, transported and assembled like modules, allowing construction to proceed with reduced impact. Full-height glazed walls were used to capture the east-facing views, while linkages between pavilions created intentional pathways of light, air and transition between public and private zones.
The result is a striking five-bedroom residence with a self-contained flat, open-plan living, dining, and kitchen areas, viewing balconies, a three-car garage, and all the refinement of a prestige home.
The design successfully turns site constraints into design assets: the rocky platform becomes a sculptural base for the pavilions; the linkages between volumes generate circulation that feels intentional and spacious; the glass and steel structure captures views without overwhelming the natural context. The landscaping wraps the house in courtyards, grassed terraces, and gardens that integrate the built form into the site in a visual harmony.
The home has also gained external recognition. The Sydney Morning Herald featured it as one of the top seven homes for sale in New South Wales.
Through creative problem-solving, Playoust Churcher Architects delivered a residence that is visually compelling and intelligently adapted to its unique site.

Ku-ring-gai is one of Sydney’s most prestigious municipalities. Playoust Churcher Architects provide expert guidance to ensure you realise your property’s and project’s value.
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North Sydney’s Council regulations for residential renovations can be complex. Playoust Churcher Architects understands the nuances and offers expert and experienced advice.
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Lane Cove Council prioritises sustainability and bushland preservation, often requiring careful environmental considerations.
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Hunters Hill, one of Sydney’s oldest municipalities, has strict heritage conservation rules, making renovations in the area particularly intricate.
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While progressive in its approach to modern development, Willoughby Council enforces stringent height, bulk, and character controls to maintain the area’s aesthetic integrity.
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“We are so happy we used Playoust Churcher Architects for a major renovation of our Lower North Shore home. This complex architectural job combined advanced engineering, design and innovation and a creative approach to modern living. Playoust Churcher supported us from conception to completion – and well beyond.
They understood our lifestyle and desire for a collaborative approach and delivered us a dream home with which it would be hard to be happier. We’re delighted to recommend Playoust Churcher to anyone building or renovating a prestige home in Sydney.”
Justin & Marek
“We provided a very detailed brief on the design and the requirements both in terms of how it would support our family as it grew over time in addition to the design features that were important to us. We were thrilled with the concept and design they delivered. It ticked all the boxes.
We felt very confident the team understood our brief in terms of the design and how we hoped to live. They also showed an understanding of the financial requirements and cost issues that are really important whenever you undertake any renovation project.”
Nadia & Jamieson
“Playoust Churcher Architects had an inherent understanding of the brief, and the design created a classic Roseville family home with wonderful proportions, depth and detail.
It’s now recognised as a stand-out in the area – people slow down and stare as they drive past.”
Kate & Scott
“When Brett and John came they just listened. John is so talented that we just trust him. I told John what I wanted our home to look like and to go for it. John can draw the designs upside down all by hand and you know exactly what he is doing. He is really talented and that was very obvious from the beginning. He is so passionate about what he does.
They were respectful of costs and just listened to what we wanted. There is a lot to say for architects that listen. The house works perfectly with our needs – there is a flow that works beautifully.”
LisaThis project created a boutique dual-occupancy development designed for both premium liveability and resale appeal. Each dwelling features quality finishes, privacy, ample natural light, and flexible layouts suited to owner-occupiers or downsizers.
Yes. Dee Why is well-suited to gentle infill projects like dual occupancy and boutique townhouses, especially on wider lots. We help clients realise value through smart, site-responsive design that works within Northern Beaches Council planning provisions.
Northern Beaches Council enforces strict rules around height, setbacks, access, landscaping, and stormwater. Early feasibility studies and DA strategy help us navigate approvals and secure outcomes.
Absolutely. Our designs prioritise privacy, liveability, and adaptability. This Dee Why project illustrates how we create homes that accommodate downsizers or dual families while maintaining independence and comfort.
Begin with a feasibility consultation so we can assess your site and goals. We then guide you through concept design, planning approvals and project delivery tailored to Dee Why’s context.
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We live and work on the lands of the Gadigal people of the Eora nation. We acknowledge their traditional custodianship of the land and pay respects to their Elders past, present and emerging.