Image Credit : Kylie DIxon and Launch Imaging as labled.
Project Overview
Despite an unassuming entrance and quiet coastal location, the Birdrock Coastal dwelling is anything but a wallflower among the gum trees. A prime example of excellent craftsmanship and simple contemporary living, this minimalist design sets the stage for a perfect family lifestyle.
Nestled within the coastal landscape in Mount Martha, on the Mornington Peninsula in Victoria, Australia, the dwelling provides hints of a modernistic coastal style, with the crisp white peak of the gable, exposed behind the heavy steel lintel forming the entry porch. Seeming to float above the windows, the steel’s heaviness is balanced with the adjacent vertical timber-clad garage, providing a private yet inviting entry into the dwelling.
Stepping down with the natural contours of the site, visitors are drawn through the bedroom and utility zones, to the open living area at the rear, which is heightened with glimpses of the blue pool in the yard beyond through the large cathedral windows.
Project Commissioner
Project Creator
The Little Brick Studio Pty Ltd
Team
Amy Hart - Designer (Little Brick Studio)
Ben Mulholand - Designer (Little Brick Studio)
Sash Trkulja - Draftsperson (Little Brick Studio)
Herbert and Co - Builder
J Matthews Design - Engineer
Kalinda Matthews - Interior Design
Project Brief
Commissioned as a family home for a growing family, this project sought to encapsulate the essence of modern luxury while harmonizing with its coastal environment. The design aimed to create a haven for its occupants who wanted privacy from the street, but the contrast of light filled open spaces internally - blending spaciousness with intimacy to cater to the needs of contemporary living.
With a focus on creating spaces that foster a seamless flow between indoor and outdoor living, the designer embarked on a journey to redefine the concept of coastal living. Internal views were emphasized, those of the pool, and glimpses to the courtyard gardens as the occupants moved through the house helped to ensure that nature was a big part of the experience of the dwelling.
Project Innovation/Need
Generally, we think of coastal homes with views of the ocean and beach, but this home differs in that the designer has brought the views internally, using courtyards, the alfresco, and a pool area to provide the occupants with the coastal feel they were after, whilst ensuring their privacy from the surrounding residential area.
The biggest feature of this is the trapezoid window which not only floods the interior with natural light but also frames the views of the inground pool seamlessly connecting the adjoining alfresco with the outdoor spaces.
Design Challenge
The biggest challenge for the project was timing, and the need for a careful design to avoid any town planning triggers, which would have delayed the project starting on site. Working with in-house planners, the design team worked within the planning parameters, stepping the dwelling with the site to avoid cut/fill triggers and overall height requirements, without needing to compromise on the cathedral ceilings and light-filled spaces.
Sustainability
The dwelling was designed with passive design principles in mind. The orientation means that the main living areas are oriented north to capture the maximum sunlight absorption when it is wanted. Utility areas and the garage face south, protecting the habitable spaces from unwanted solar gain. Materials were sourced locally where possible but also chosen for durability to ensure the dwelling could withstand the coastal elements.
Architecture - Residential - Constructed
This award celebrates the design process and product of planning, designing and constructing form, space and ambience that reflect functional, technical, social, and aesthetic considerations. Consideration given for material selection, technology, light and shadow.
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