Nestled into the lush hillside of Mount Keira, just northwest of Wollongong’s bustling CBD, lies Mountain House, a striking residence crafted by Nadine K Design in collaboration with Contractors United Homes. Surrounded by the grandeur of the Illawarra escarpment, this home is a serene retreat that blends seamlessly with its natural environment while drawing inspiration from Japanese and Scandinavian design traditions.

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A harmony of nature and design

Mountain House is more than a home; it’s a reflection of its environment. Perched on the edge of the escarpment, it offers panoramic views of Wollongong below and is bathed in Northern light. Nadine K Design envisioned a space that embraced minimalism and functionality while honouring the textures and tones of the surrounding landscape. The result is a home that effortlessly connects its interior spaces with the natural world beyond.

Drawing from the principles of Japandi design – a fusion of Japanese and Scandinavian styles – Mountain House balances simplicity with warmth. The interiors are uncluttered yet inviting, featuring natural materials, neutral tones, and thoughtful details such as dark timber accents and large plants. Every element of the design invites calm and contemplation, creating a sanctuary in the hills.

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LYSAGHT ENSEAM®: A contemporary architectural finish

One of the standout features of Mountain House is its striking exterior, clad in LYSAGHT ENSEAM® walling in COLORBOND® steel’s Monument®. The clean lines and bold finish of LYSAGHT ENSEAM® cladding perfectly complement the home’s Japandi aesthetic, offering both functionality and beauty.

LYSAGHT ENSEAM® is known for its versatility and modern appeal, with broad flat pans and subtle ribbing that add texture and depth to any façade. Its concealed fixing system ensures a seamless look, making it an ideal choice for Mountain House, where every detail was carefully considered. The deep, rich tone of Monument® adds a sense of drama to the exterior, while also blending harmoniously with the surrounding escarpment.

Beyond aesthetics, LYSAGHT ENSEAM® provides the durability and strength required for Australia’s unique climate. Its robust construction ensures that Mountain House will not only remain visually stunning but also withstand the elements for years to come.

The essence of Japandi design

Mountain House’s design is a masterclass in Japandi principles, blending the simplicity of Japanese design with the cosiness of Scandinavian style:

Minimalism: Clean lines and uncluttered spaces define the home, creating an atmosphere of tranquillity.

Natural materials: The use of natural timber, stone and steel celebrates the textures of the surrounding environment.

Neutral palette: Soft greys, whites, and the rich of COLORBOND® steel’s Monument® work together to create a cohesive and calming aesthetic.

Connection to nature: Expansive glazing and thoughtful landscaping bring the beauty of the escarpment indoors, blurring the boundaries between inside and out.

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An inspirational approach to design

Mountain House is more than just an architectural achievement – it’s an inspiration for homeowners and design enthusiasts alike. It demonstrates how thoughtful material choices, like LYSAGHT ENSEAM® walling, can elevate a design while remaining grounded in functionality and durability.

For those dreaming of a home that connects to its environment and offers a sanctuary from the everyday, Mountain House is proof that great design doesn’t just build houses – it creates harmony.

Discover more

Explore how LYSAGHT ENSEAM® can bring contemporary elegance to your next project. Learn more about our walling and cladding solutions at Lysaght Walling & Cladding.

Nadine Ryan, Building Designer, Nadine K Design

Nadine K Drafting and Design, led by Nadine Ryan, is a client-focused design business passionate about all aspects of architecture and design. Nadine understands each client's unique requirements, applying this throughout the design journey from concept to documentation. With 20+ years of experience, Nadine K shares invaluable knowledge and collaborations with trusted professionals and suppliers in the industry, like Lysaght.

Find more of their work at nadinekdesign.com.au.

Originally published on https://lysaght.com/inspiration/blog/collabs/mountain-house

Architecture & Design Team

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