Many contemporary beach houses have become status symbols rather than simply homes in which to spend time with family and friends. However, for a semi-retired couple who stand by their sustainable principles, a large suburban house in a coastal setting would be at odds with their philosophy – even the idea of building a second home (although this one will eventually be used on a more permanent basis) initially caused them concern.
However, the result, a modest three-bedroom house of just over 150 square metres, constructed in recycled and sustainable materials, justifies the second home. It also demonstrates what can be achieved in thinking outside the square. The shape of the house, triangular in form, also defines the traditional approach – allowing for the home’s three elevations to create a looseness on the large coastal site.
This arrangement enables each façade to respond to the site and its orientation, engaging with the biodiverse garden designed by landscape architect Jo Henry. From the outset, ‘Beach Slice’, named after the timber wall that appears to slice through the plan, was destined to reach a 7.9 NatHERS rating.
As well as using recycled timber, including the timber from the floors of the original 1920s cottage, there are recycled bricks, expressed on the inside and out, with the concrete floors combined with fly ash – reducing the energy in producing concrete. Large picture windows, with built-in seats in the open plan kitchen and living areas, allow for both structure (LVL beams) and function to merge, as with the nifty manner in which curtains can be retracted and stored in a built-in cupboard when not required.
The owners, who regularly have family and friends staying over, wanted a simple yet energy efficient home. The starting point was a simple extension to a 1970s home architect Steffen Welsch had shown them, one that connected to their lives and the type of houses they grew up in. However, rather than chilly corridors and cupboard-sized bedrooms, this house includes three generous bedrooms, two bathrooms and a separate yoga room that connects to a triangular-shaped deck – ideal for dragging mats onto during warmer days, or simply getting out a few deck chairs.
As important in the design was to create a home that could be naturally ventilated with large operable windows with flyscreens, ceiling fans and large sliding timber and glass doors to blur the division between inside and out. And in the colder months, the pot-belly fire place warms the living areas. Here, it’s about using materials in an honest manner and enjoying being connected to this unique landscape.
This image features an exterior view of the house, highlighting the intricate architectural details of another specific facade section, while also showcasing the diverse garden landscape.This photograph captures a nighttime exterior shot of a specific facade section of the house, showcasing its unique architectural design elements under the ambient lighting.This photograph captures the exterior of the house at nighttime, offering a unique two-way perspective of its architectural design.This photograph captures the exterior of the house at daytime, offering a unique two-way perspective of its architectural design.This photograph captures a distinct two-way perspective of its architectural design.This photograph showcases the outdoor area of the house, highlighting a rustic bench made of bricks that blends seamlessly with its surroundings, providing a cozy and inviting spot to relax and enjoy the scenery.A photograph that portrays the exterior view as seen from the open door and glass windows of a living area.The photograph depicts an interior view of a living room furnished with various pieces of furniture. Additionally, the brickwall design of the room is prominently showcased.The photograph captures an interior view from a carefully chosen perspective, showcasing the seamless integration between the indoor and outdoor areas.This is an interior photograph that exhibits a seamless integration between the living area and the dining area.This is an interior photograph that showcases the curtains on the windows obstructing the entry of natural light from outside.This is an interior photograph that showcases the dining area and highlights its interior design elements, also featuring the full height cabinetry situated adjacent to the dining area.This is a photograph that captures the dining area from a perspective vantage point and highlights its seamless integration with the adjacent kitchen area.A photograph that showcases the interior design of the kitchen area.This image captures a wooden shelf situated in the kitchen area with bottled seasonings and a potted plant placed on top of it,This is an interior photograph of a bedroom that features large glass picture windows with built-in seats.This interior photograph of a bedroom showcases large glass picture windows with built-in seats that are constructed together with the cabinetry.A focus shot featuring the large glass picture windows with built-in seats.Map location of the houseSite plan drawing of the house.Floor plan drawing of the house.North west elevation view drawing of the house plan.South west elevation view drawing of the house plan.North section view drawing of the house plan.West section view drawing of the house plan.
