How to frame a harbour view for maximum impact

Having been fortunate enough to acquire a property that looks out over sapphire waters festooned by marine craft and pleasure seekers, the challenge is then to frame that view so that both you and guests can swim in it, figuratively of course.

“Floor-to-ceiling glass, double glazed, is a must,” says architect Rob Mills. “It’s also essential to exercise care with the placement of the terrace.

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“If you are going for the big view out of the living area, the terrace is placed to one side.”

If, however, you want to regularly entertain in an outdoor space that dazzles, framing the view on the terrace may be what you focus on. But this doesn’t mean forgetting the outlook from the inside.

In fact, Mills suggests using the same flooring material in both places to create the illusion that the interior and exterior are one.

This architectural continuance also draws your eye towards the view that, according to Sotheby’s International Realty, costs 121 per cent more to acquire than a comparable property set back from the water.

Sydney-based interior designer Marylou Sobel says you must then consider both the height of your outdoor furniture and the nature of its material, so it doesn’t hamper the view.

“It should have elements you can see through,” she says.

Metal and glass pieces can be smart choices because they are not as visually dense as other materials, and they weather well.

Contemporary furnishings from Space and Cosh Living are popular for top-tier terraces, Sobel says.

She warns that one should avoid furniture that is too light and can be easily lifted by an easterly.

“We had one table with a concrete base that was craned in,” Sobel adds.

Furnishings with 100 per cent UV-safe, solution-dyed fabrics only should be used, but still packed away when not in use, she advises.

“A colour palette of greens, blues or natural tones, in harmony with the environment, can soften the eye,” Sobel says.

Other elements often requested which also need to take second place to the view are a barbecue area, storage and resilient plantings.

Also key are heating – ceiling and wall-mounted electric or free-standing gas – and diffused lighting that provides ambience, but doesn’t compete with twinkling harbour lights.

Find it here

SOLD - $9,770,000

47 Beaumont Street, Rose Bay NSW 2029

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2

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View property

Price guide: $9.5 million

Auction: 12.45pm, September 7

Agent: Ray White Double Bay, Elliott Placks 0402 149 917

Expansive views from the living area and terrace of this striking, architectural family home highlight all of Sydney’s icons.