coolum bays beach house at mountain’s edge by aboda design group

coolum bays beach house at mountain’s edge by aboda design group
all images courtesy of aboda design group

australian practice aboda design group recently completed the ‘coolum bays beach house’ on the coast of queensland, australia. dictated primarily by the steep site, the home is conceived as terraced volumes cantilevering out over unobstructed ocean views, supported by a subterranean garage. each form is oriented on the east/west axis, opening up towards the south to accept natural light. gabion walls mark the various stepped yards and entry features, heavy natural elements as a precursor to the heavy concrete volumes that frame the entryway.

entry door

materials consists of various forms of concrete structure and cladding, cedar panels , tile and aluminum siding- chosen for their durability and low maintenance, especially important in the coastal climate. the interior enjoys large open spaces on half-levels connected by a central staircase. warmer wooden floors and white walls offset the hard exterior materials. large glass walls slide open allowing the interior to flow out onto the cantilevered decks in the sky. the abundance of operable windows not only provide an excellent natural light but cross ventilation as well. various types of louvers, operable and fixed, further help the control of direct sunlight.

side elevation showing the level differences

driveway leading to the garage

steel structures allows for the large cantilevering elements

tile, concrete, stone, and steel define the exterior material palette

operable louvers help control direct sunlight

dining area open to the living room a half-level below

living room area opens entirely onto an exterior deck

living room

upper living room

kitchen

bathroom

exterior deck

project info:

project name: coolum bays beach house
location: coolum beach, queensland, australia
company name: aboda design group
designer: scott falconer / lee foster – aboda design group
builder: ian callaghan – fauna homes