A ’70s Beach House in Australia Goes From Basic to Breathtaking
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Project Details:
Location: Mollymook Beach, New South Wales, Australia
Architect: Jost Architects
Builder: Jack James Construction
Year Built: 2020
Footprint: 2,174 square feet
Lot Size: 7,308 square feet
From the Architect: "While the house was set on a flat, roughly 7,319-square-foot block just one road back from the beach, the existing dwelling had some challenges. Inside, the house was dark, with a compromised, multilevel floor plan featuring one-and-a-half bedrooms and no real connection to the backyard. The late 1970s house had also been given an ill-thought-out internal makeover in the 1990s which was beginning to look tired and dated. Our client’s brief was simple: to give them a house that functioned better for their active family and looked great as well! The design was inspired by the midcentury vernacular of the original part of the house but nearby beach houses as well, featuring their distinctive skillion roofs and simple but robust materials."
The use of white breeze blocks for the external brickwork at the front directly references classic beach houses found throughout the area.
"The existing envelope was reduced to one square, central structure on the ground floor, which now contains the updated kitchen and living area. We then built out in three directions to create a more cohesive and connected interior."
"The existing envelope was reduced to one square, central structure on the ground floor, which now contains the updated kitchen and living area. We then built out in three directions to create a more cohesive and connected interior."
"The house’s materiality was influenced by the relaxed, coastal landscape and environment that directly surrounds it with the use of exposed brick, spotted gum, and blackbutt hardwood timbers and polished concrete."
"Walls, ceilings and kitchen cabinetry in white vertical grooved board add to the simple, beachy feel and act as a subtle backdrop to the furniture pieces—including an oversized dining table handmade by the owner—all of which were carefully chosen by our clients."
Large apertures allow for light and fresh air, emphasizing the connectivity to the outdoors.
The dining area opens to an expansive timber deck with steps down to the lush lawn that perfectly suits the area’s temperate climate.
Permeable separations increase connectivity between living spaces.
The mezzanine level houses an airy yoga area.
The front deck allows for a beautiful street-facing outdoor space.
"On the other side of the house sits an oversized garage, workshop and laundry."
Published
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