In the late fifties, contemporary Sydney architects disappointed with modern European architecture, turned to Japan and Frank Lloyd Wright for inspiration. Influenced by Wright’s approach and the ‘natural’ architecture of pre-war Japan, these homes commonly incorporated exposed construction (i.e. exposed timber beams), natural materials (brick, stone, timber), and modular plans with a primary structure and infill walls.

Jack House, the family home of founding AJ+C partner Russell Jack, sits on a site on Sydney’s upper north shore that is densely covered with native trees and outcrops of sandstone.

A small creek is incorporated into the plan to separate the bedroom and living areas into distinct wings. A solid wall on the public side screens the residence from view of the street and neighbours, to establish a sense of privacy. The public face of the house is protected and impenetrable, yet its private side, which is constructed substantially of glass, is light and open. The project won the prestigious Sulman award in 1957.