In the context of this exclusive West Coast development, this house challenges the approach and philosophy of what a beach house should be.

The house is carefully tucked into the landscape with only the vaulted roofs and chimney visible. Surprisingly, this contextual response affords the house total privacy from adjacent double storey houses. Through compact planning, the house provides impressive accommodation for large family gatherings.

The problem of orientation to the sun is resolved through a generous courtyard, which allows morning sun to be splashed into the house. Well-detailed adjustable shutters protect the house from afternoon sun. Views across the lagoon are carefully framed through windows and doors, creating a layer of desirable spots in the house.

The exclusive use of bricks, built with no expansion joints, concrete or waterproofing, bears testimony to the architect’s exceptional knowledge of construction. The clean crisp and highly inventive detailing and choice of material for doors, windows, shutters and joinery will ensure that the fittings will stand the test of time with minimal maintenance.

This house merges a wealth of knowledge and personal references into a significant contribution to architecture.