Relaxed, low-maintenance beach home follows passive design principles

By Banham Architects

From the Architect:

The brief for this project was for a simple, low maintenance beach house.  The retired couple wanted to downsize from their family home, and build an abode that is welcoming and relaxed, but also stylish and modern.

The block is located near the coast, with all the living areas, inside and out, facing north and enjoying a ocean views.  

The living, dining and kitchen are all open to allow for ample natural light, cross ventilation and to create a sense of space in this modest size home.  The living area opens through large glass sliding doors onto a large covered veranda / BBQ terrace that faces the street. Here the owners can relax and greet neighbours as they walk to the beach.

The materials were chosen to be robust, low maintenance and to reflect the character of the coastal location.  

Portuguese Limestone that has the grain and hue of beach sand has been used on the living area floors and as a cladding to feature walls.  

A series of white blades form the roofs & veranda. Detailed to be as thin & minimal as possible, these form a striking juxtaposition to the robust stone walls.  

Timber and neutral tones in the cabinetry and furniture compliment the stone and white forms of the building. 

The resulting house has a striking modern aesthetic blended with natural materials to give it a relaxed holiday feel.

The house has been designed with all the passive solar design principles in mind.  All the major openings are oriented to the north and ensure ample natural light fills the home.  

Large eaves protect the walls and extensive glass from excessive solar heat gain. Low E glass with a heavy tint provides further solar protection.  

The open plan with strategical located openings allows for excellent cross ventilation. 

All light fittings are low volt LED fittings, while a gas fireplace provides efficient heating.

Story by: Trendsideas

Photography by: Carla Atley