MACKEREL BEACH REVISITED
A couple of decades ago I was approached by a brave/crazy client who had just purchased a challenging site at Mackerel Beach in Pittwater (Northern Beaches Sydney).
Challenging because Mackerel Beach is water access only, and the small site was about one third covered by a creek, and was a few hundred metres from the wharf. And there were no cars or trucks in the suburb to transport building materials, and the site was flood affected.
The site restrictions resulted in a small but funky 2 bedroom beach house, sitting 1500 above the ground to comply with the flood policy.
Lightweight construction was chosen because of the access difficulties, and we were able to use a helicopter to deliver most of the building materials to the site. No approval was needed from any authority as long as the truck on the mainland was legally parked, and the helicopter remained airborne all times.
One of the smallest houses I have ever designed, but one of the funnest!
Sydney Project Addresses
Video
Stunning Views
Sustainable Development
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PETER DOWNES – CHARTERED BUILDING DESIGNER
Welcome to my website. I specialise in difficult sites with spectacular views, anywhere in Australia.
Inspired by a life – long love affair with the Australian landscape, and a passion for architecture, I design people’s dream homes.
With decades of experience in architecture and engineering, no site presents too much of a challenge, so let me create an innovative masterpiece for you & your loved ones.
I am a winner of 60 AWARDS, and I would love to win another one with your project.
Mission Statement
Every site is different, and so are its’ owners, so every project on my website is unique. Our aim is to find that one perfect design that maximises the good characteristics of the site and minimises the bad. And we love happy clients!
Some Client’s Comments
“Peter continuously surprises me with his lateral thinking and futuristic design ideas.”
“You are a legend and the design is really fantastic.”
“Outstanding result, what a brain!”
“After two architects submitted very disappointing and predicable options, we struck gold with Peter.”
“Peter’s design is not only unique but our house has a WOW factor.”
“We are delighted with our result and would have no hesitation in recommending him, particularly where elements of ‘spice’ and excitement are needed.”
“A brilliant performance.”
“You came up with a unique design that was exactly what we wanted.”
“Thanks Peter. We absolutely love the design.”
“We are completely delighted with the amazing design that you have come up with.”