Standing up to the sea

Designed by Steeg Banham, Banham Architects

From the architect:

Project overview

This residence is one of a pair of architecturally designed homes situated on a prominent corner site along West Coast Drive in Perth, Western Australia. 

Overlooking Mettam’s Pool – a popular beach destination for families –  the property enjoys sweeping views of the coastline and the Indian Ocean. 

Given West Coast Drive’s high volume of vehicular and pedestrian traffic, the interface between the home and the street was a key consideration in the design.

Site conditions and environmental challenges

Perched atop limestone cliffs, the site is highly exposed to the elements. 

Winter brings intense storms with strong winds and driving rain, while summer subjects the property to extreme heat, with temperatures regularly exceeding 40°C. 

The sparse vegetation offers little shade, and the sea breeze carries a salt mist from waves crashing below, creating a highly corrosive environment for any built structure.

Design response

The owner requested a home that is both refined and elegant, yet resilient and low-maintenance. 

To meet these requirements, exposed off-form concrete made with white cement was used for the primary structural components – including walls, floor slabs, and the roof. 

Galvanised steel reinforcement ensures durability, while the thin roof slab design maximises elevation and enhances ocean views

The light-toned concrete reflects summer heat, and its high thermal mass helps regulate indoor temperatures throughout the year. 

Internally, neutral travertine stone flooring and blonde oak joinery complement the subtle off-white concrete, creating a serene and atmospheric interior that responds beautifully to changing natural light.

Minimalist detailing contrasts with the raw concrete forms, adding refinement to the robust structure.

‘Accoya’ timber cladding has been used for the garage doors, entry door, and gate. 

This high-performance timber is exceptionally resistant to weathering and, over time, will naturally bleach to a silver tone – harmonising with the white concrete and enhancing the coastal aesthetic

Spatial arrangement

The three-level home is organised to optimise views and functionality:

Upper level

The main living area and master bedroom are located on the top floor, where an open-plan layout for the living, dining, and kitchen spaces captures uninterrupted ocean vistas. 

Large, automated sliding glass doors open the living area to cooling sea breezes. 

The balcony provides a connection to the walkway below while buffering noise from traffic. 

Glass screens with one-way vision / solar film at each end offer privacy and protection from the wind and sun without impeding the view.

Middle level

This floor includes two additional bedrooms and a lounge that overlooks a sheltered rear courtyard and a small pool, offering a more private and tranquil retreat.

Lower level

Mostly subterranean, this level houses the garage, sauna, and gym, making efficient use of the sloping site. 

A window to the pool brings light into the gym.

Story by: Trendsideas