Steve Jobs once famously said, “The key to good design is paying attention to the user.” This principle was at the heart of Mosman House, an old waterfront Sydney residence that has been transformed for sustainable, contemporary living.

Mosman House occupies a prime waterfront position, nestled discreetly within a tranquil cul-de-sac. This secluded abode commands arresting harbour vistas that captivate the senses. The studio, The Unlisted Collective, was entrusted to modernise and reconfigure the interiors, tailoring the spaces to optimally suit the tastes and lifestyle of the resident couple. With the breathtaking panoramas as the centrepiece, the redesign deftly enhances the property's liveability and elegance.

The design brief called for updating the layout while maintaining the existing structure and maximising the vistas of Middle Harbour and Quaker Hat Bay. The interiors were to be warm and spacious, providing both privacy and entertainment areas.

Reinstating floor-to-ceiling glazing and generous terraces captures the scenic outlook. Skylights, operable louvres and carefully placed landscaping elements create a sense of expansiveness and allow northern light to permeate the multi-level home.

On the ground floor, the open-plan living and entertainment spaces take centre stage. The angled block presented an opportunity to tuck away a private library, a cosy retreat for reading and relaxation. The upper levels offer a private retreat, featuring the main bedrooms with en-suites, his and her walk-in robes, and study areas, further enhancing the tranquil atmosphere.

The home showcases a curated selection of furniture and complementary lighting, reflecting the couple's unique lifestyle and adding character to the space. The clients' familiarity with the existing structure, combined with their 20+ years of residency, provided valuable insights that informed the revamped layout, better suiting their needs and improving the overall cohesiveness of the space. By paying close attention to the homeowners' preferences, the designers were able to create a truly personalised living environment.

Opting to upgrade the existing structure and reconfigure the interiors was a sustainable and innovative approach, rather than demolishing the property. This decision allowed the design team to achieve a more environmentally responsible outcome, while modernising the home to meet the couple's evolving requirements.