Perched on the scenic slopes of Seaforth, Sydney, Forever House by MCK Architects effortlessly blends into its surroundings, while overcoming the challenges of a steep site. The modest, modern family home offers a retreat where tranquility reigns, with views of Middle Harbour’s serene waters and Sydney’s iconic sandstone cliffs. Through a thoughtful approach to form and landscape, the home embraces simplicity, while maintaining a sense of calm, privacy, and natural light.
PROJECT OVERVIEW
Location: Seaforth, Northern Beaches, Sydney, Australia
Architecture & Interior Design: MCK Architects
Interior Design: Taline Gabrielian
Build: FCD Group
Landscape Design: Lone Pine Landscapes
Doors & Windows: Vitrocsa
Lighting: Est Lighting and Euroluce
Artwork: Heather B. Swann
Photography: Anson Smart
The journey of Forever House began with a vision to create a family home that would stand the test of time—one that could be enjoyed for generations to come. The structure, designed with a contemporary and casual aesthetic, sits lightly on the landscape, appearing almost like an object floating above the land rather than being anchored into it. Director of MCK Architects, Steve Koolloos, describes the project as “simply a modest family home, but in this day and age, maybe the modesty is kind of extraordinary.”
The residence is positioned to take full advantage of the views over Middle Harbour, yet its orientation ensures an abundance of natural light from the north. The challenge of balancing these two factors—view and light—was no small feat, especially considering the heavily sloped site and the proximity of neighboring homes. Koolloos explains, “The challenge was how to engage with natural light and still embrace the views to the south, while maintaining privacy from nearby homes.”
Upon entering the sunken open-plan kitchen, living, and dining area, there is an immediate sense of calm as the interior transitions seamlessly from the street. Oversized retractable glass doors invite the outdoors in, allowing the stunning harbour views and gentle sea breeze to fill the space. “Sydney’s north-easterly breeze makes the difference between a house being comfortable or not during summer,” notes Koolloos. This strategic design feature ensures the home is well-ventilated and comfortable year-round.
While the house opens generously to the north and south, the east and west facades remain solid, offering both privacy and protection. The landscaping by Lone Pine Landscapes further enhances the privacy of the home, with well-considered plantings that shield the house from prying eyes while maintaining a connection to the surrounding natural environment.
Located in Seaforth, a coastal suburb where homes cling to the escarpment in search of the best views, Forever House does not seek to dominate the landscape. Instead, it takes a more humble approach. Koolloos reflects on the architectural vernacular of the Northern Beaches, stating, “I want to say yes, but I want to say no.” He observes that the area has long been a mix of architectural styles, with many buildings feeling out of place. In contrast, Forever House reflects the laid-back, coastal aesthetic of Seaforth’s contemporary architecture—modern, yet understated.
Materials play a significant role in the home’s serene atmosphere. Off-form concrete and warm timber are the primary materials, creating a delicate balance between raw and refined textures. Koolloos emphasizes the robustness of these materials, particularly the concrete, which ensures the home is durable enough to withstand the coastal environment for many years to come. This material palette not only provides longevity but also contributes to the relaxed, welcoming feel of the home.
Walking through the house, with its constant connection to the harbour and the ever-present water views, is a peaceful experience. Despite its strong architectural form, Forever House feels relaxed and unpretentious. “Even though it’s contemporary and has quite a strong form, the home is actually very casual,” Koolloos explains. This casual yet sophisticated atmosphere is what makes Forever House a timeless retreat for its inhabitants—a place to gather, relax, and enjoy the beauty of Sydney’s Northern Beaches for generations to come.
