The Brief

The clients wanted the house to feel comfortable and to function well for when they are there on their own, and with the abilityto expand and accommodate the needs of the family and grandchildren and or other visiting guests.

The house faces the Sandspit Estuary with all rooms opening out to a north facing internal courtyard, withthe swimming pool acting as the centralfeature of the courtyard. This area providesa sunny protected area for clients, familyand any other guests to gather regardless of wind direction.

The materials were selected to give the house a relaxed lodge style appeal. Band sawn plywood and battens clad the exterior with timber joinery and a corrugated iron roof. This style is also reflected in the interior with band sawn grooved plywood and exposed rafters.

The overall effect is a relaxed family house using a cluster of forms around a central courtyard, capturing the scenic views of the Sandspit Estuary. From Sumich Chaplin Architects.