Situated on a uniquely positioned block along Northbridge’s breathtaking waterfront, this extensive renovation transformed a home in dire need of modernisation into a vibrant family sanctuary. The project not only revitalised the existing structure but also introduced new, thoughtfully designed additions that span the entire spectacular property.
Working in close collaboration with the client, Jon King, and his team at Design King Company, we tackled difficult access, bushfire compliance, construction on the harbour foreshore, unpredictable ground conditions, and ensured safety for both workers and the local environment—all while managing the wettest year on record in Sydney.
The result is a truly exceptional property, now a standout landmark in one of Middle Harbour’s most prestigious suburbs. More importantly, it is a home where a family can connect and thrive.
Architects Design King Company
Engineer Partridge
Photography Luke Butterly
Blog
One of the biggest issues consumers find is how to differentiate builders from each other. Since there is only one builder’s license, without any levels or grades, it is difficult to determine just how reliable a builder is. You can ask for references, but surely a builder will only refer you to people he is sure will give positive feedback.
It’s also one thing to be good at building, but a client and an architect also want to be reassured that the builder is also running a viable building business at the same time and will be around long after the build is over to have a continued relationship, fix defects, do additional work, and/or maintenance.
One clever way is to ask the builder about their Home Warranty (HBCF) policy. All residential works over $20,000 must have a policy, and builders are regulated by how many projects they can have open at one time, and a limit to how large any one project can be. This limits them taking on too much work, or jobs that the insurer believes is too large for their business. The system is definitely not perfect, but it does give decision makers a little more data in order to make an informed decision.
What many people don’t know is that each builder is also rated by their insurer in order to get a discounted premium, the full “retail” price, or even a loading on the standard premium, if the insurer deems the builder at greater risk than normal. It’s very similar to life insurance. So, the larger the discount a builder gets (up to 30%), not only does it save some hard-earned money on the premium itself, but more importantly it is also a good indication that the insurer believes that they are a lesser risk and running a good business!
– David Moses Managing director of Horizon
Recent news
Healthy Minds, Safer Sites: NSW Government working to improve psychological wellbeing in construction
The ‘Healthy Minds, Safer Sites’ campaign, part of the NSW Government’s Psychological Health and Safety Strategy 2024-2026, aims to address psychosocial hazards in the construction industry. Backed by $5.6 million, SafeWork NSW inspectors are providing guidance on managing risks such as harassment, bullying, work pressure, traumatic events, and hazardous environments. With workplace mental ill health costing Australian businesses up to $39 billion annually, preventing psychological injury is essential for both worker well-being and reducing workers’ compensation claims and insurance premiums.
The NSW construction industry employs over 400,000 people, with data showing that mental stress claims result in more time off and higher costs than physical injuries. Between 2019 and 2024, nearly 900 major mental stress claims were lodged, with workplace harassment and bullying being the leading causes. While many employers recognize mental health challenges, SafeWork NSW will continue site visits until March 2025 to promote safer workplaces. Businesses like Western Earthmoving Works Pty Ltd are leading the way by fostering mentally healthy workplaces through worker engagement and proactive risk management. Employers can create safer environments by identifying risks, consulting workers, implementing controls, monitoring safety, and reviewing measures regularly.
Volunteering at Camp Sababa
Hi Everyone!
It’s Katie from the office, I wanted to share with you the volunteering work I do outside of Horizon. In Early December, I attended Camp Sababa which is an annual 4-day camp that runs for kids ages 7-24 with disabilities to encourage social inclusion and support for the families that provide year-round care for their children. Volunteers come every year to ensure that the children participating feel supported and can be counted on for an amazing time at camp.
This was my 6th year on the committee as Activities Coordinator which involves organizing all the activities that keep us busy during camp including swimming, craft, reptile show, sport, and music which is catered to our campers who have a range of disabilities. Camp Sababa is split into two different camps, Junior and Senior to ensure that the different interests of the campers and volunteers involved are met.
When I first signed up at Camp Sababa, I had no idea what I was getting myself into but to my surprise, I truly had the most memorable time. I experienced inclusion in a way that I never thought I would and allowed myself to embrace all the challenges that were met. At every camp, I witness the bonds built between the volunteers and campers which is a unique and special opportunity to bring all people together.
Volunteering at Camp Sababa every year continues to remind me how important it is to encourage inclusion and advocate for the campers as the impact they had on me is intangible. I want to thank Horizon for supporting me to do this, this is just another reflection of how this company can have an impact beyond our work and how experiences like these can align with our company values.
Thanks everyone,
Katie V
Events
Superyacht Soirée
We’re excited to announce Horizon’s partnership in this year’s Superyacht Soirée! This exclusive event gives guests the chance to explore a collection of stunning superyachts through a ‘Yacht Hop’ experience, where Captains and Crew will guide you on private tours of the yachts. Horizon will also be showcasing our high-end residential projects, highlighting the quality and craftsmanship we put into every build. It’s a great opportunity to experience both luxury yachts and luxury homes all in one unforgettable evening!
Saturday 8 March 2025 Jones Bay Superyacht Marina 2:00 – 8:00pm
One of our major projects in Surry Hills, where we’re restoring a block of 10 terrace houses. This heritage restoration has presented its fair share of challenges, including the structural repair of cracked brick walls using advanced brick stitching techniques to stabilise the walls without compromising the integrity of the original building fabric to managing hazardous materials like lead and asbestos. Despite the obstacles, we’re thrilled that we were able to preserve the original chimneys and front facade in every terrace, adding to the character of these historic homes. We’re collaborating with Shand Studio and Barana Group to bring this important project to life.
Our Vaucluse project is well underway! Key developments include the waterproofing and repotting of the tiered garden at the front facade, beautiful bedroom renovations, and a complete transformation of the backyard and landscaping. We’re proud to be working with the talented team at Nina Maya Interiors to bring these spaces to life. Stay tuned for more updates as the project progresses!
The Vault
Rose Bay Residence II
ArchitectsPhillips Henningham
Photographer Karl Beath
Interior designer Marco Meneguzzi
Cool Products
The Aiper Scuba S1 Pro Cordless Robotic Pool Cleaner is the latest and greatest pool cleaner on the market. Gone are the hoses or cords that have to be plugged into the pool somewhere and get tangled up in a mess. The Scuba S1 Pro is self-contained with two baskets to hold all the leaves and other debris inside it,. Its tracked populsion system allows it to climb the walls of the pool, scrubbing all surfaces of algae and debris. Just charge it up, put it in the pool, and let it go to work!
Employee of the month
This month we meet Mitchell Johnson
How long have you been at Horizon?
6.5 years
Where were you born?
Canberra, but grew up on our family farm in Yass
What do you love about your job?
Everything
What are you working on at the moment?
Redevelopment of 10 terraces in Surry Hills.
What do you enjoy about working with architects and designers?
Craftsmanship, details and collaboration
What has been your greatest professional achievement to date?
Being a part of the team working on our recent Northbridge build, highly difficult site, challenging conditions and a remarkable finish.
What’s the most useful thing you’ve learned throughout your career?
Ask questions, be the dumbest person in the room. Three people you’d have over for a BBQ?
My 3 heroines:
Taylor Swift
Shania Twain
Dolly Parton
Favourite dessert?
Bomb Alaska
What do you do outside of work?
I love pubs
Horizon – Building projects you’ll love, and love building together.
