north coast home: a summer retreat by bourne blue architecture

north coast home: a summer retreat by bourne blue architecture
image © simon whitbread
all images courtesy of bourne blue architecture

responding to its surrounding coastal conditions, the holiday house designed by australian firm bourne blue architecture, is separated into three pavilions. located directly on the beachfront, the building takes its cues from the local vernacular architecture; based on traditionally small footprints, made from simple and durable materials. the overall built form of the summer retreat is reduced by its considered layout, as it allows the landscape to naturally occupy the spaces in-between. respect for the existing context is shown by the building’s stepped roof – the structure follows the natural topography of the land, as the site cascades down towards the water.

summer holidays here revolve around surfing and being surrounded by nature. most of the house’s ‘living spaces’ are actually located outdoors – in between the pavilions or decks. the large amount of garden provides a sufficient area for on-site wet composting waste systems, offering a sustainable alternative for sewage treatment. the attributes of a typical family home have been distilled down to the basics, with the design moulded to suit easy-going summer experiences. careful consideration was given to the entrance into the building: how sand is removed, where surfboards can be stored (out of the sun), where towels dry (in the sun), where wetsuits hang (out of the sun).

the deck extends out from the living space towards the water
image © simon whitbread

adults and children have their own domains, the top part of the house belongs to the adults, while the children have a separate bunk room on a lower level – they met in the middle by a shared living room. full height glazing extends the open plan living room and dining room to the outside deck, enhancing the building’s easy indoor-outdoor flow, and allowing the sea views to be enjoyed from within. offering a further connection with nature, the main bathroom is located outdoors screened by fiber partitions. durable and corrosion resistant, the building is constructed from simple materials, clad in fiber cement with battens covering its facade. the compact holiday house is flexible in its use as the pavilions can be divided by different families, while still offering an easy flow between the various spaces.

full height glazing extends the open plan living room and dining room to the outside deck
image © simon whitbread

the living room offers views straight out to the water
image © simon whitbread

open plan living space made from durable and simple materials
image © simon whitbread

view of the children’s area, a separate space away from the other rooms
image © simon whitbread

located outdoors, the bathroom offers a further connection with nature
image © simon whitbread

the site slopes steeply up from the road
image © simon whitbread

main deck overlooking the beach
image © simon whitbread

bedrooms are located above the living area
image © simon whitbread

combined living, kitchen and dining space
image © simon whitbread

minimal details provide a relaxing retreat
image © simon whitbread

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