Ocean House

Brief: Design a knockdown rebuild for a narrow sloping site that faces directly out into the ocean across the road. Fit in a big garage, lift and a double master suite. We were also expected to catch the sun over the tall northern neighbour and achieve privacy from the Southern neighbour. The entire design was to be low to zero maintenance. Response: We chose to design the house under Complying Development for the better side set-backs, quicker and more flexible process. The six-car garage, entry, access to lift and stairs needed to be under DA because it was too close to the street for CDC. The living areas flow onto a lawn that covers the garage, and a large front balcony appears to hang in the air to maximise views and provide shelter below. Materials are stone, off-form concrete, Colorbond, face brick and Weathertex cladding, with commercial quality windows and doors.