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Modern infill development, masterfully designed in off-form concrete and curved cedar cladding, this design makes the most of it's elevated park side spot.

Nestled adjacent to a landscaped reserve over sandstone outcrops with secondary frontage to Alfred Lane in Rozelle, the original former workers cottage , erected in the 1930's on an irregular wedge shaped elevated 275m² allotment overlooked Eaton Park. Acquired in 2009 for $680k, the owners previous unsuccessful initial attempts to seek demolition approval in 2011 was rejected by Inner West Council due to the cottages' contribution to the character area. 

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In 2013, Development Design was commissioned to assist the owners in the preferred demolition and re-development potential of the site. After a detailed assessment it was established that opportunity to take advantage of the State Environmental Planning Policy under Exempt & Complying Development was available that would permit the demolition and construction of a new two storey dwelling via a Private Certifying Authority in lieu of a Council Development Application, thus inevitably avoiding Council's onerous Distinctive Neighbourhood Controls and lengthy processing times.

As a result, from a former worker’s cottage to a residence that encompasses the notion of a grand design, this Rozelle dwelling has come a long way from its humble origins. The owners along with their two kids, the Rozelle House is an update on the Australian dream, with a generous dose of modernism and a contemporary edge forming an enviable nucleus. Originally a one-bedroom, one-bathroom cottage on its last legs, the new design brief revolved around creating an open-plan two-storey residence that maximised the site, solar access and views to adjoining landscape Reserve and Eaton Park opposite. The concept was split into public and private areas, with the ground floor housing the common spaces including an open kitchen/dining/living area and the first floor containing the 3 bedrooms and bathrooms. It was important to maximise the amount of natural light and view Easton Park from all living areas. 

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The home features side lane access and a layered garden that hints at its contemporary nature. The curved front steps lead to a minimalist cedar-lined entry door, which leads into the ground floor. The entry comprises full-height double glazed sliding and curved doors to the north, east and southern sides. The home’s exposed theme is immediately recognised, with off-form concrete ceilings and flooring on the ground level packing a punch. The concrete floors and ceilings became the major design feature within the house. The raw imperfections create a unique character and tell a story of how the house was constructed. To complement the raw aesthetic, a neutral colour palette was utilised throughout the residence, with white walls and shades of grey working with the concrete floors, ceilings and walls. Indoor–outdoor living is present on the ground floor, with the living area opening out to the wraparound timber terrace that features a bespoke concrete fireplace in line with the industrial scheme. A 7-metre-wide kitchen follows the same idea with the outdoor entertaining area located just a few steps away. A true labour of love, the Rozelle House was a test in every sense of the word by pushing the boundaries of the typical family home within it's surrounding distinctive traditional character context. 

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In 2017 the family sought to take advantage of the significant capital gain achieved on the property through a $2.64 million resale. As of 2024, current valuations estimate the property's worth at an impressive $4.25 million, a testament to the thoughtful design and strategic vision that harmoniously blended modern luxury with the serenity of nature.