Perched above Newport Beach in Sydney, Australia’s spectacular Northern Beaches is an elegant outdoor pavilion, lawn, and pool designed to embrace panoramic views. Designed by Sydney–based architecture studio Carter Williamson, the contemporary addition is a continuation of their previously completed Newport House project. Tasked with creating an outdoor living area the clients could use all year round, the architects developed a solution that provided a balance of shelter and open space.

Named LA Cool, the structure was inspired by the low-lying pavilions of American modernism. The low, horizontal structure remains unobtrusive to the surroundings.

The pavilion includes both a covered and uncovered section which allows the space to be used throughout multiple seasons and types of weather. A fireplace, kitchen, and a wood-fire pizza oven provide all the necessities for dining, entertaining, or just relaxing.

According to the architects, the pavilion is “a wonderful, ephemeral, breathable environment, further embracing the natural Australian landscape surrounding the home." Uniquely detailed design elements engage the structure with the surroundings. Strategically placed skylights allow natural light to fill the covered living spaces while sculptural cut-outs in the western wall allow the evening light to filter into the pavilion.

The same pure, natural color palette used in the original Newport House is used in the pavilion, allowing the two living spaces to seamlessly work together.

Project Credits:

Architect of Record: Carter Williamson / @carterwilliamson_architects

Builder / General Contractor: Toby Reading, Beachill Construction

Structural Engineer: Cardno Farinola

Interior Design: Julie Niass, Carter Williamson

Project Photography: Ben Guthrie