mcgregor westlake architecture designs copacabana house on australian coast

mcgregor westlake architecture designs copacabana house on australian coast
photo by brett boardman
all images courtesy of mcgregor westlake architects

‘the copacabana house’ is located on the central coast of new south wales, australia, and provides expansive views of the beach and headlands to the south, as well as the hills to the north. designed by mcgregor westlake architecture, the dwelling is defined by two main volumes located perpendicular to one another on the site. the east-west oriented ‘pavilion’ contains the primary living spaces, and opens entirely on its long faces to take advantage of ocean and mountain views either direction. a north-south aligned ‘plinth’ measures 24 x 6 meters, and contains three small bedrooms, bathrooms, and a garage. above, a roof terrace with a retractable awning creates a place for relaxation and engages views of the street.

from the street the house has a modest appearance, nestled amongst plentiful vegetation
photos by brett boardman

the plinth is the main element perceived from the street, with the pavilion set further back on the site. decks and living spaces are given priority in regard to views and openness, with bedrooms tucked away. the lush vegetation on the property is integrated with the residence, complementing the subdued and clear concrete forms.

a secluded courtyard is framed by the residence, vegetation, and the front gate
photo by brett boardman

the roof form tilts upward to the north, allowing for winter sun penetration, and a greater view of the copacabana ridge
photo by brett boardman

an orange and white awning shades the sunken roof terrace
photo by brett boardman

operating much like a beach umbrella, the canopy’s movements correlate to diurnal sun patterns
photo by brett boardman

the house in relation to the waterfront
photo by brett boardman

the exterior material palette is primarily comprising board-formed concrete walls and stained wood
photo by brett boardman

the climate allows the spaces to remain open even into the night
photos by brett boardman

floor plan / level 0

floor plan / level +1

(upper): north-south section
(lower): east-west section

project info:

location: copacabana beach, nsw, australia
project dates: 2009-2013
area: 165 sqm
architect: mcgregor westlake architecture
photography: brett boardman