This house located on Sydneys lower north shore has been designed to provide generous family accommodation whilst taking full advantage of its northern aspect and magnificent outlook over Cremorne bushland. In response to the sloping site, the buildings courtyard entry is anchored into the hillside with sandstone retaining walls while at the rear cantilevered entertaining decks take on a lighter character and appear to hover in the forest canopy. Key to the design is a central stair which serves multiple functions. It divides the building into quarters, separating various living and bedroom zones together with providing an extended outlook and sense of space. The stair is also highlighted by overhead glazing which allows natural light and air flow to penetrate through the building to the lower ground floor. A sophisticated palette of sandstone, glass balustrade, stone tile, timber, concrete block and muted colours reflect the natural surroundings and provide sense of understated luxury.