0722 Flinders Bay Beach House

...Dramatic cantilevered lines and warm tactile materials respond to this natural bushland and coastal environment, giving a nautical edge to this beachside home

Situated on a dramatic bush site with enviable views of Flinders Bay and Augusta inlet, this beach home was designed to create a peaceful rural retreat far from the busy Perth lifestyle but within reach of Western Australia's famous Southwest region.

The existing topography of the site created the potential for a split level house which could nestle amongst the native coastal scrub and Peppermint trees whilst also maximizing access to sweeping views of the town and bay. The material palette was inspired by the natural features of the site, with local Augusta granite used extensively in conjunction with timber cladding, and a variety of durable rendered finishes to create a home which is both bold and low maintenance.

The building form is characterized by a contrast between solid masonry forms and lightweight projections, most notably with dramatic cedar-clad 'U' structures that extend all the way from the front balconies through the interior to the rear entertainment court, framing views and defining spaces. The large cantilevered balconies are supported by distinctive steel columns that are staggered and shaped asymmetrically to respond to the ragged lines of the surrounding tree trunks.

The house is constructed using the Formcraft ICF system, which combined with the double-glazed windows, environmentally-sustainable design features and the emphasis on passive-solar design and natural ventilation, creates a climate-responsive home which will perform in all seasons.