- Architects: Nick Bell D&A
- Location: Whale Beach NSW 2107, Australia
- Design Team: Nick Bell, Poppi Denison, William Drew
- Area: 327.0 sqm
- Project Year: 2013
- Photographs: Simon Whitbread photo
- Construction: Yuncken construction group
- Landscape Design : Marcia Hosking
© Simon Whitbread photo
The concept of this house is to create a space that mirrors its coastal setting, providing both a relaxed and uplifting environment for the owners.
© Simon Whitbread photo
The use of steel, glass and recycled timbers creates a modern home that feels calm and confident, reflecting the underlying principle of our practice which is to design houses that are understated yet impressive; simple yet meticulously detailed.
Plan
The building is conceived as two main elements. The main three-storey block contains the primary living and sleeping accommodation, each room enjoying an easterly aspect to the ocean, with services and circulation within a western spine. To the west is a separated two-storey pavilion, containing separated private garden accommodation.
© Simon Whitbread photo
The design of the main pavilion utilises a regular steel structure. The structural frame is emphasised to provide definition of individual areas within the main space.
© Simon Whitbread photo
Crucial to the design is a two-storey void to the structure’s southern end. This places the communal spaces at the heart of the house and connects the two main levels used by the permanent occupants. The void also provides legible and inviting circulation within the building, to make the transition from the upper entry level to main living spaces. The main roof follows the slope up towards the west to capture natural afternoon light and, in combination with the void, maximises natural ventilation.
Section / Elevation
From this simple layout the design sought to reinforce the clarity of space and celebrate the interaction of the elements, surfaces and materials: steel, timber and glass.
© Simon Whitbread photo
When viewed from the beach and surrounds, the charcoal and timber palette ensures an understated recessive presence in keeping with the intended aesthetic and concept.
Sig Nordal 