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DOWNIE NORTH

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Mosman Minka Comprising alterations and additions to a Federation bungalow, the design seeks to be a polite and adroit neighbour, a quiet sibling that allows the dialogue of the existing streetscape to remain uninterrupted. Evoking the Japanese ‘Minka’ housing typology, (characterised by a large roof under which multi-level spaces are arranged), the roof form with its deep protective eave elegantly responds to opportunities for winter thermal gain and capture of coastal breezes, whilst creating a strong connection to views and landscape.
Location: Mosman, Cammeraygal Country
Council: Mosman Council
Build: BCM Aust
Photography: Clinton Weaver, Katherine Lu
Awards: AIA NSW Architecture Awards, Residential Architecture—Houses (Alts & Adds) (Finalist); Houses Awards, House Alteration & Addition Over 200m2 (Finalist); Inside Out x Brickworks House of the Year Awards, Best Home Renovation; Dulux Colour Awards (Finalist); ArchiTeam Awards, Residential Alts & Adds (Commendation); Dezeen Awards, House Interior & Residential Rebirth Project (Longlists)
Mosman Minka
Mosman Minka reimagines a freestanding Federation bungalow on Sydney’s Lower North Shore, balancing the charm of the original home with a striking contemporary addition. Guided by the desire to live outdoors as much as possible, this design is shaped around managing light, shade, privacy and connection to landscape - all under a distinctive, protective roof form.

The front of the original heritage home has been respectfully preserved, with the first four rooms largely untouched to maintain its relationship with the street. However, like many homes of its era, the rear of the house was poorly connected to its context - facing due west, it was exposed to neighbours and harsh sun. The new extension addresses these challenges with care and precision.

The design takes cues from traditional minka houses of Japan - vernacular homes known for their expansive, sheltering roofs and layered spatial planning. In this reinterpretation, a dramatic zinc-clad roof sweeps low over the new structure, offering protection from the elements while creating a calming sense of enclosure. Living spaces unfold beneath this roof, extending gently into the rear garden and pool area.

Screens and deep eaves filter western light and provide privacy, while carefully placed windows and voids draw light and breezes deep into the home. These openings create visual links across levels - connecting spaces in subtle, surprising ways. Inside, the new living areas - kitchen, dining, family room and outdoor deck - are arranged in a quadrant addressing the backyard. Above, private bedrooms are nestled within the roof form. Circulation is seamless, with transitional spaces like hallways and stairwells offering moments of light, outlook and pause.

The new addition echoes the proportions of the original home, creating a sense of balance between old and new. Offset zones are used efficiently for bathrooms and laundry, while finishes are kept natural and restrained to support a warm, timeless feel.

Mosman Minka is a home designed for modern family life—rooted in heritage, inspired by tradition, and shaped by its local climate. Through a carefully crafted roofline and considered openings, the house offers privacy, comfort and connection to nature - creating a true sanctuary in the city.
Location: Mosman, Cammeraygal Country
Council: Mosman Council
Build: BCM Aust
Photography: Clinton Weaver, Katherine Lu
Awards: AIA NSW Architecture Awards, Residential Architecture—Houses (Alts & Adds) (Finalist); Houses Awards, House Alteration & Addition Over 200m2 (Finalist); Inside Out x Brickworks House of the Year Awards, Best Home Renovation; Dulux Colour Awards (Finalist); ArchiTeam Awards, Residential Alts & Adds (Commendation); Dezeen Awards, House Interior & Residential Rebirth Project (Longlists)