Pavilion living shaped by light and landscape.
Sandal Rise is a contemporary reworking of a 1970s bungalow, defined by its distinctive mirrored roof geometry and its unique relationship to an adjacent suburban cricket ground.
The project transforms a previously inward-looking house into a light-filled family home organised around elevated living spaces, outdoor rooms and a sculptural roofscape that extends and intensifies the character of the original architecture.
Rather than replacing the building, Studiogotz recognised the existing roof forms as the project’s defining architectural asset. These opposing, asymmetrical planes were extended and consolidated into a series of pavilion-like volumes that now shape the house’s identity, organise its internal spaces and frame long views across the landscape.
Key living areas are lifted to first-floor level, allowing the principal social spaces to open directly onto elevated terraces overlooking the cricket pitch. A double-height living, dining and kitchen space forms the centre of the plan, animated by angular roof glazing that traces the geometry above and draws daylight deep into the interior.
At ground level, the house is structured between a sheltered front courtyard and a rear garden terrace, establishing a clear spatial progression from arrival to landscape. A precise glazed opening cut through the existing brick boundary wall reconnects the house visually and physically with the cricket ground beyond, while retaining the wall as a defining element of the site.
Material contrasts reinforce the architectural composition. Dark metal cladding articulates the extended roof volumes, while crisp white render maintains continuity with the original structure. Gold-toned panels define stair volumes and transitional moments, introducing warmth beneath deep overhangs and expressed roof planes.
Throughout the project, structure, material and form are closely aligned. The roofscape is not treated as an applied gesture, but as the generator of space, light and occupation — allowing the house to evolve confidently from its original identity while remaining grounded in its suburban setting.
Existing street-facing view of the original single-storey house.
Conceptual 3D model of Sandal Rise showing stepped roof volumes arranged around a sheltered front courtyard.
Conceptual aerial view of Sandal Rise showing sculpted roof forms and first-floor terraces.
“I am thrilled to highly recommend Volker Gotz, an exceptional architect with whom we have had the pleasure of working for the past four years.
“Throughout our building journey, Volker has consistently gone above and beyond in every aspect, making him the best professional we have ever collaborated with.
“From the onset, Volker’s keen attention to detail and creative approach helped bring our vision to life. His innovative ideas and practical solutions transformed our concepts into a stunning reality, resulting in a beautiful house that exceeds our expectations. Volker’s ability to navigate challenges with ease and his unwavering dedication ensured that the project proceeded smoothly and efficiently.
“What truly sets Volker apart is his passion for architecture and his commitment to his clients. He genuinely listens to our needs and incorporates them into the design process while offering invaluable expertise and insights every step of the way. His approachable demeanor and professionalism foster a collaborative environment, making the entire experience enjoyable and rewarding.
“Thank you, Volker and Studio Gotz, for your outstanding work and support throughout this journey. We could not have achieved this wonderful home without you, and I wholeheartedly recommend your services to anyone seeking a talented and dedicated architect.”
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