A Modernist Pavilion in the Landscape

Kenthurst House 2 is an elegant and forward-thinking residential design set in the lush semi-rural context of Kenthurst, NSW. Designed for a young family, the home is conceived as a linear, low-lying pavilion that both complements and immerses itself into the surrounding bushland. This concept is reinforced by its strong horizontal roofline, restrained material palette, and seamless transitions between interior and exterior spaces.

Site Response and Composition

Located at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac, the house is carefully positioned along the site's natural contours, preserving mature trees and enhancing views to the landscape beyond. The planning is deliberately orthogonal, expressed through clean geometries and a deep cantilevered concrete roof plane that anchors the home to its setting.

From the entry, the structure reads as a monolithic form, softened by timber cladding, planting, and expansive glazing. The visual lightness is accentuated by deep overhangs, creating covered outdoor areas while passively shading internal spaces.

Spatial Organization

The design unfolds across two primary levels:

• Ground Floor: Organised around a central atrium, the layout provides clear zoning for private, social, and service spaces. The main living area is located at the heart of the home, opening onto a generous north-facing terrace and landscape beyond. Adjacent to it, a kitchen, butler’s pantry, and dining area enjoy expansive glazing and direct access to the outdoors.
• The bedroom wing includes a master suite with walk-in robe and ensuite, three children’s bedrooms, and a guest suite with a private bath and office/lounge. Several green courtyards and roof gardens further animate the circulation spine and bring natural light deep into the plan.
• Basement Level: Partially embedded into the slope, the lower level accommodates a restored vehicle showroom, brewery and cellar, and building services areas. A discreet entry stair connects this level to the upper floor without disrupting the overall form.

Materiality and Environment

The restrained material palette includes:

• Off-form concrete for structure and roof planes, offering durability and sculptural clarity.
• Vertical timber battens for warmth and contextual resonance.
• Extensive glazing to foster transparency and promote natural light.
• Green roofs and landscape integration, enhancing the building’s thermal performance and visual integration.

The roofscape is an active part of the project’s sustainability strategy, with solar panels and planted green zones creating a microclimate while softening the building's silhouette when viewed from above.

Sustainability and Comfort

The design employs passive solar principles, including orientation, cross ventilation, thermal mass, and shading. Water-efficient landscaping, integrated photovoltaics, and the use of low-maintenance materials further align with the clients’ desire for an environmentally responsive family home.

A Timeless Expression of Modern Australian Living

This project exemplifies MSK Architects’ commitment to refined detail, contextual sensitivity, and spatial generosity. The home’s long, sheltered volumes open to light, air, and greenery, offering its occupants an immersive and peaceful living experience while confidently expressing architectural clarity and modernist discipline.

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