The Northern Beaches is a coastal haven that features five distinct and varied wards - Pittwater, Narrabeen, Frenchs Forest, Curl Curl, and Manly. Each ward features its own unique architectural style that is underpinned by a mix of beachside holiday homes, modern beach houses, traditional Australian architecture, and contemporary, bold designs.
Many of the Northern Beaches original beach houses were constructed during the building boom of the 1950s and 1960s with traditional timber cladding and pitched roofs. Today, contemporary design choices are characterised by expansive, open-plan design that capitalise on the abundance of natural light, while paying homage to the area’s relaxed, beach-centric lifestyle.
Population - Approximately 274,670
Distance to CBD - Varies (up to 27 kilometers)
Dwellings - Approximately 117,336
Architectural Appeal - Mix of beachside and suburban architecture, with many homes and apartments offering ocean views
Curb Appeal - The famous beaches and surf breaks, including Manly, Curl Curl, and Palm Beach, and the many coastal walks and parks
Essentials - Take a scenic drive along the winding roads and scenic lookouts of the Wakehurst Parkway
Population - Approximately 274,670
Distance to CBD - Varies (up to 27 kilometers)
Dwellings - Approximately 117,336
Architectural Appeal - Mix of beachside and suburban architecture, with many homes and apartments offering ocean views
Curb Appeal - The famous beaches and surf breaks, including Manly, Curl Curl, and Palm Beach, and the many coastal walks and parks
Essentials - Take a scenic drive along the winding roads and scenic lookouts of the Wakehurst Parkway
The Decus vision is powered by an expressive and intuitive approach to interior design and architecture projects in the Northern Beaches. Working across residential projects of different scales across the Northern Beaches and Sydney, our rebellious yet world spirit consistently drives individual design outcomes – a relentless pursuit in capturing personality and elevating experience.
Our team of talented architects and interior designers in the Northern Beaches connect with clients on a fundamental level, allowing us to design tailored homes that are layered with character and enlivened by spatial tensions.
With expert knowledge and a light-hearted approach to design, decoration, architecture, project management, and procurement, Decus instils ease and joy in the design process in the Northern Beaches and New South Wales.
Alexandra Donohoe Church, Founder and Managing Director, BA.IntArch
Charlene Cong, Studio Director, BA.IntArch (Hons)
Lucia Ayub, Registered Architect, B.Arch NSW Architects Reg No. 12135
Sarah Wilson, Senior Interior Designer, BA.IntArch
Madeline Manolas, Interior Designer, BA.IntArch
Kelly Doyle, Interior Designer, B.IntDes
Sophie Hughes, Interior Designer, B.IntDes
Sophie Doyle, Interior Designer, Dip.IntDes
Courtney Fletcher, Technician, BA.IntArch
Jeremy Church, Procurement and Administration Manager, B.Bus(Marketing)
Lucy Sheedy, Practice Manager, B.IntDes
2023
EST Living Esteemed 10
Listed Studio Recognition within the Top 10 Designers in Australian Architecture & Design Community
2022
Vogue Living Top 50
Listed
Studio Recognition within the Top 50 Designers within Australia
2022
The Australian – The List
Listed Studio Recognition within the Top 50 Designers within Australia
2021
Vogue Living Top 50
Listed
Studio Recognition within the Top 50 Designers within Australia
2021
The Australian – The List
Listed Studio Recognition within the Top 50 Designers within Australia
2020 AUSTRALIA
Australian Interior Design Awards
Winner: Best Of State (WA)
Coastal Home
2020 AUSTRALIA
Australian Interior Design Awards
Shortlisted: Best Residential Interior
Coastal Home, Hill House
2020 AUSTRALIA
Belle Coco Republic Interior Design Awards
Shortlisted: Designer Of The Year, Best Residential Interior, Best Kitchen
Coastal Home, Hill House
2019 AUSTRALIA
House & Garden Awards Top 50 Rooms
Winner: Best Bathroom
Hill House
House & Garden Awards Top 50 Rooms
Shortlisted: Best Soft Furnishings
Coastal Home
House & Garden Awards Top 50 Rooms
Shortlisted: Best Kitchen
Hill House
2018 AUSTRALIA
Belle Coco Republic Interior Design Awards
Winner: Best Bathroom
Woollahra House
Interior Design Excellence Awards (IDEA)
Shortlisted: Best Residential Interior Decoration
Killcare House
Interior Design Excellence Awards (IDEA)
Shortlisted: Best Residential Interior Decoration
North Bondi Home
2018 INTERNATIONAL
Andrew Martin International Interior Designer of the Year
Shortlisted
Killcare House
2015 AUSTRALIA
House & Garden Awards Top 50 Rooms
Winner: Room of the Year
Fairlight House
