Headland House designed by Richard Cole Architecture stands on the shale cliffs of Mona Vale Headland. The site and headland slope away to the South West, to the swell formed hollow of Basin Beach. On such an exposed promontory shelter is vital. Photography by Simon Wood Photography.

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Evoking the act of setting up on the beach, with just a spread of towels to define the temporary boundaries of place and an umbrella as shading canopy, the design seeks to provide shelter lightly: a relaxed, pellucid enclosure. Responding to both outlook and exposure, the boundary wall contained plan and low slung split floor section carefully respond to the difficult South-Western orientation and topography. The angled and tapered roof scoops northern light deep into the building through the anchor of the central staircase and deflects the north-easterlies that wrap over the cliffs throughout Summer. The pervading openness and transparency ensures a proximity and connection with the landscape.