Traditional lands of the Awabakal people
NSW
Quietly nestled in the foothills of southern Merewether, _New Castle_ manifests a subtle grandeur that is both ambitious and refined. Romantically envisioned as an invisible garden of paradise, the residence’s design is entirely encompassed within a walled garden, creating a _sub rosa_ sanctuary for its inhabitants. A thick limestone wall begins at one corner at hip height and rises to nearly two stories at the opposite corner, with a few thoughtfully placed openings offering intriguing glimpses of inside, which include a cluster of Cabbage tree palms and a mature evergreen Magnolia Grandiflora.
Inside the garden wall, the rooms of the house snake around, forming more hidden pockets of outdoor space. This procession of rooms, all a single room wide, allows for multiple perspectives and interactions with the gardens, while inviting light and ventilation into every corner.
_New Castle_ is a once-in-a-career project, showcasing ambition, love, and tenacity in every detail.
‘New Castle’ redefines contemporary design by seamlessly blending various international architectural traditions to establish a new model for living. The home gestures to the English walled garden, wrapping around the perimeter of its landscaped Australiana grounds — providing a continual visual experience internally. This backdrop is framed internally by deep, richly crafted timber reveals, offering moments for passive ventilation and seating thresholds to enjoy the engawa-style veranda beyond – a nod to Japanese influences.
At the heart of the design lies a thoughtful narrative; a double circle motif threading through the entirety of the experience — from the arrival gate to bespoke door handles and concrete soffit lighting recesses. This recurring form unites the home with a low-tech and considered poetic rhythm.
‘New Castle’ celebrates the importance of a blurred boundary between interiors and architecture — a home that finds joy in precision, elevates ritual, and offers a masterclass in the art of considered living.
Anthony Parsons, Design Architect
Jake Kellow, Graduate of Architecture
Izzat Consulting Engineers, Structural Engineer
Room on Fire, Furniture and soft furnishings
Pangkarra, Landscape Consultant
Studio JEF, Landscape Consultant