sculptural frustum roofs top beach residence by architects EAT in south australia

architects EAT has unveiled the ‘bellows house‘, a vacation residence situated on a corner block within the area of flinders, in south australia. seeking to establish a permanent structure, anchored in the sands —quite opposite to the lightweight beach vernacular— the design generates an arrangement of white concrete masonry blocks and wooden detailing that animate the long façade and spark a lively dialogue with the adjacent street.

all images by derek swalwell

the project by architects EAT intends to preserve the occupants’ privacy while still establishing dynamic interaction between the dwelling and the street. the exterior takes shape with the help of masonry and concrete elements, which together with the frustum roofs and layering of spaces, evoke street engagements and curiosities. these create a contrasting effect with the long façade which essentially serves as a ‘defense mechanism’ to provide domestic intimacy.

the entry towards the house starts from the pedestrian gate on the main street: the dusty pink brick pavers guide residents towards the native garden and the build structure. through the gap between the long façade and the garage, an outdoor shower is set, for washing down the wet gears from the sea, before the space opens up to the inner courtyard garden, where the family members gather and socialize.

within the house, the two largest frustum roofs reveal their internal structure, shaped with reverse step concrete pyramids. the skylight emerges between them, providing sufficient all-day illumination to the living and dining areas. the heavy construction of the residence makes the external masonry elements appear lightweight, while the overall exterior seems minimal adorned with simple, yet intricate details. while this house doesn’t settle on a spectacular clifftop site, nor does it provide generous views of the ocean, its flat inland village location and its distinctive form have prompted a response of a place marker, which the locals affectionately refer to as the ‘pyramids of flinders’.