Its inexplicable why a narrow windy road makes an address seem more exclusive, but in this case it’s well earned.

75 Chisholm Ave is at the end of the road, 20 steps from Angophera reserve, deep within the rocky folds of the peninsula. The level walk from the carport is flagged by the first of many enormous wooden sleepers (rescued from a long dead railway), and skirted by dramatic and magnificent rocks.  As you enter Qantas pilot Peter Kingsford’s, home you are immediately drawn into this open, though cosy space, aware of the sandstone coloured polished cement floors and the panorama of bush within easy reach thanks to open spaces, and bird life, everywhere.

A seriously big fireplace, surrounded by artisan-crafted stonework warms the whole house thanks to hydronic space heating and in a design sense it anchors the living area.

Not a conventional home in shape or material, it has different levels and ceiling heights, blackened wood next to caramel oregon timbers, aluminum framed windows shedding dappled light onto weathered timber tables. It is a home that feels rich in texture and confident in design, and absolutely part of the natural terrain as it steps down into the forest, the rocks a strong and ever-present feature.

The land has been in Peter’s hands for 14 years, but it was only three years ago that he began to build,  designing around a collection of signature materials and ideas he had been collecting for the duration, influenced in part by his Asian travels.

Off the mid level living area is a bathroom with a double width cavity sliding door – reminiscent of shoji design – and as for the Japanese bath off the Master? Opening up to the virgin bushland? An inspired idea.

“I’ve had enough time in cities while travelling overseas,” Peter said. He wanted to create a sanctuary while, as he put it, “doing the site justice”. Without doubt he has fulfilled his wish on both counts.

This story was featured in the Manly Daily May 2012