// PROJECTS: New Houses

This project is situated overlooking Bilgola Beach facing South-East, with views along the coast. our clients required a new home, for a young family taking full advantage of the site and ocean views beyond. They wanted a house that was informal, relaxed and embraced the beach life-style, offering an escape from the pace of city living.

The house consists of two pavilions, designed around a central courtyard spread over two levels, following the natural contours of the site. By keeping the main living area largely transparent, views of the ocean are maintained from the rear of the site and courtyard. Neighbouring houses are hidden by the side walls and the careful alignment of the main living area which frames views of Bilgola Beach. The courtyard is enclosed on three sides, and provides a necessary escape from the strong North-Easterly winds, during the summer. Large sliding doors can stack at either end to open the space up to the courtyard and terrace beyond.

The bedroom accommodation is kept to the rear two-storey part of the house. Flexibility is an important feature of the design, so that rooms can be adapted for different uses as the family grows. Built in joinery has been carefully detailed and design to seamlessly integrate into the rooms. The neutral white walls and blackbutt flooring add to the relaxed and informal atmosphere reminiscent of the traditional beach house.