refresh design reinterprets australian beach house with cantilevered structure

located in a beachside setting, the architectural brief for ‘northern rivers beach house’ project was to realize a contemporary, yet cost effective three-bedroom property that is connected to nature. the subtropical open-plan living is adapted to its temperate climate, with the initial premise was to ‘re-interpret’ the beach house by integrating traditional materials of corrugated metal, fiber cement sheeting and timber elements, onto a contemporary and dynamic shape.

all images © damien bredberg

designed by brisbane-based firm refresh*design, the restraints were the small plot area, low budget and restrictions due to flooding. this resulted in exploring the unconventional concept of a cantilevered structure, with both ends overhanging and counterbalancing each other. using steel for the major structural elements, and timber for the secondary structure, a very economical and bridge-like architecture was created to produces a soaring visual effect.

the scheme incorporates sustainable design principles, and has been planned to take advantage of natural ventilation, passive solar design and a very economical use of space. building materials such as plantation timber, bamboo for flooring, and plywood for ceilings were used throughout. the abstraction of the timber-battened vernacular of subtropical architecture adds movement and scale to the house.

the kitchen, dining and living room is arranged in a linear organization

‘this understated elevated residence blends well with its sub-tropical coastal landscape. it exhibits architectural and structural resolution in an innovative way, within a clear functional planning framework. the design management process with this project was well conveyed, and a cost effective exemplar for this constrained site was achieved. the realisation of stage 2 with its’ informed site planning, will contribute well to this evolving coastal community.’ – australian institute of architects 2015 gold coast / northern rivers regional award jury

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