Positioned atop an existing residential building in Potts Point, this project delivered two side-by-side penthouses—each with its own distinct outlook. One residence embraces expansive views over Sydney Harbour, while the other is oriented toward the dynamic city skyline and the iconic Sydney Opera House. By adding an additional level to the existing structure, the project created two two-storey penthouses that represent a bold architectural addition, redefining vertical living in one of Sydney’s most tightly held precincts.
Designed by Alexandra Kidd Interior Design, in collaboration with Marcellino Sain Architects (M.A.R.S) Pty Ltd, the penthouses combine sophisticated detailing with architectural restraint, allowing the surrounding vistas to take centre stage. The interiors are defined by refined materials, bespoke joinery and a calm, contemporary palette that reflects the interplay of sky, sea and city.
Building above an occupied, ageing structure required meticulous coordination. The addition of a new level meant that structural reinforcement was critical—with residents living directly below throughout the project, every stage—from foundation strengthening to craning materials into position—had to be executed with minimal disruption, maximum safety, and strict adherence to strata requirements. Limited access, complex load transfers, acoustic isolation, and working within the constraints of an older building fabric all added layers of technical and logistical complexity.
Engineered by Partridge and SDA Structures, the solution was as much a feat of planning as it was of construction. The result is a seamless and striking addition to the skyline—an elevated retreat that feels both connected to, and apart from, the city below.
Architecture by Marcellino Sain Architects (M.A.R.S) Pty Ltd
Engineers: Partridge & SDA Structures
Interior Design by Alexandra Kidd Interior Design Photography by Alicia Taylor
When meeting with some clients recently about their upcoming build, they asked me “What do we need to do to be model clients?”.
Resisting the urge to publicly embarrass them with an enormous hug, I gave them my standard advice that I give to all those about to embark on their building journey – no matter how big or small it might be.
Slow is smooth, and smooth is fast. The faster we can build (without rushing and making mistakes), the better the outcome for everyone – clients, designers, builders and subbies/suppliers. To be able to do so, one needs to know what we’re building, well before we need to build it, in order to properly plan ahead, and never stop to wait for detail or a delivery.
The key is to know what we don’t know, as early as possible, in order to give us as much time to find out, and get ready, before it causes a delay.
Above: Cost vs. Ability to make a changes to design.
In order to build smoothly, here are three golden rules:
1. Make decisions early. The earlier decisions are made, the better to know what is being done by whom, when they will do it, and for how much. It allows everyone to plan ahead, minimise any delays or pauses in between tasks and a clear sense of the budget moving forward. Also, the earlier in the process decisions are made, the easier it is to have meaningful impact on budget with the minimum of difficulty. The further down the path the project goes, the harder it is to change, and the cost of doing so goes up significantly (see image above).
2. Make decisions quickly. Prussian Field Marshal Helmuth von Moltke the Elder once said – “No plan ever survives first contact with the enemy”. All building projects require regular design fine-tuning along the way. Some more than others, but as unforeseen issues arise, such as latent conditions, or even “I didn’t think it would look like that”, by all means seek advice from relevant people, but make an effort to resolve a decision as soon as possible, in order to minimise any downtime or delays.
3. Don’t change your mind! Of course, you can always (and in many cases SHOULD) change your mind, especially if you feel that the outcome you’re going to get does not or will not meet your expectations. Just know that changing your mind may have cost and time implications, including the time taken to choose what to do differently (See #2 above!).
News
WINNERS! || MBA Excellence in Housing Awards 2025
We’re thrilled to announce our Northbridge Residence II project won the Alterations & Additions – $15 million and over category at the industry’s premier awards night. To cap off an already incredible evening, we were honoured to be named MBA NSW Master Builder of the Year for the second time – an unprecedented achievement that reflects the extraordinary talent, dedication, and commitment of our entire team.
This award recognises not just one project, but the culmination of 45 years of excellence – our high-performance culture of curiosity, collaboration, and going the extra mile, the robust systems and processes we’ve refined over decades, and the enduring relationships with our partners. It’s a testament to every single person who contributes to our success, from our incredible staff to our trusted subcontractors and suppliers.
The Northbridge Residence II project exemplified these qualities. Designed by DKC Architecture with Partridge Engineers, this extensive waterfront renovation transformed a dated property into a vibrant family sanctuary despite extraordinary challenges: a 2,500m2 site at the end of a dead-end street, bordered by a national park, luxury homes and Sydney’s Middle Harbour with over 50m of level change.
Our solutions included cutting an access road through the existing tennis court, complex piering for the boathouse, barge deliveries coordinated with tides, and Gabian retaining walls transforming unusable bushland into stunning harbour-view terraces. We installed an infinity pool over a new concrete-encased sewer line and replaced all windows with fire-rated steel for Flame Zone compliance – all during one of the wettest years on record, while maintaining our uncompromising safety standards.
We’re deeply grateful to the MBA, our amazing clients, design partners, and especially our team who make achievements like this possible. Congratulations to all the winners!
We are delighted to announce that our annual Golf Championship will be held on Thursday, 30 October 2025 at Macquarie Links Golf Club.
This is the 11th time we have run the event, and we are looking to build on our success from last year, where we raised over $40,000 for the Sydney Children’s Hospital Fountain and Lifehouse RPA.
If you’d like to play on your own, as a pair, a team of four, or even better – sponsor the event, please contact us here.
See below a current list of logos of our generous sponsors. All we’d ask is that you consider their services the next time you are looking out for some!
Congratulations to the Easts Junior Beasties for winning their grand final a few weeks ago!
Horizon have been the major sponsor of the club for the past 6 years and have recently committed to doing so again until the end of the 2028 season! We are proud to support the local youth in getting out and playing sport, being healthy, building self confidence, learning about commitment, discipline and winning & losing, while making life long friends along the way.
Horizon’s All-Staff meeting
The team came together for our annual staff meeting at The Field’s at East Rugby, enjoying great food and company at a relaxed BBQ setting.
Our Managing Director, David Moses shared comprehensive updates on the business’s progress and future direction. Senior Managers highlighted staff achievements and outlined development pathways, celebrating the dedication and growth within our team.
Our WHS consultant delivered practical and engaging session on workplace health and safety, equipping staff with important knowledge and resources.
Thank you to everyone who attended and contributed to making it such a productive and enjoyable day. Here’s to continued success in the year ahead!
Cool Products
The Glove armchair, designed by Ellison Studio, combines post-modern influences with contemporary comfort through its pillowed proportions and blind-tufted detailing. Following the studio’s well-known Huggy swivel chair, the design reflects the label’s ongoing focus on relaxed elegance and considered craftsmanship.
Under Construction
Our current project in Surry Hills involves restoring ten terraces to their former glory in collaboration with Shand Studio and MPN Engineers. The works present a number of complexities, from navigating heritage requirements to coordinating the installation of 10 kitchens, 10 laundries, and 34 bathrooms within a tight program. We are undertaking this with long-term clients, with whom we have successfully delivered multiple projects over the past decade.
A renovation project in Dover Heights involves relocating the pool by extending the fourth floor of this seven-level residence. The works also include upgrades to the kitchen, living room, entertainment room and 2 bedrooms with ensuites. Perched on a cliffside with the home cascading down towards the ocean, the property offers sweeping views over Bondi Beach. We are working with Decus, who are leading the interior design and architecture.
Architecture & Interiors by KA Design Studio
Engineered by Alba & Associates
Photographer Katherine Lu
Award 2019 Master Builders Association NSW Excellence in Housing Awards – Contract Houses $10 – $15 Million
Employee of the month
This month we meet Mitchel Talevski
How long have you been at Horizon?
10 Years
Where were you born?
Sydney
What are you working on at the moment?
4 story remedial renovation in Dover Heights.
What do you love about your job?
Working in and around complex and challenging builds to create something that everyone involved can be proud of.
What do you enjoy about working with architects and designers?
Watching and assisting to make concepts/sketches in beautiful homes.
What’s the most useful thing you’ve learned throughout your career?
Ask as many questions as possible and never stop learning.
Three people you’d have over for a BBQ?
J Cole, Tim Duncan and Shane Gillis
Favourite dessert?
Caramel slice
Horizon – Building projects you’ll love, and love building together.
