Creating the Rising Sun: Precision, performance & light

Set on a coveted waterfront site at Bokarina on the Sunshine Coast, The Rising Sun residence is defined by its outlook and its climate. Sun, coastal breezes and views to the water called for a home with a strong connection to the outdoors, where living spaces could open easily to light and landscape. Created for a multi-generational family, the brief required a residence that could flex and adapt while maintaining a seamless relationship between inside and out.

However, the site presented a clear architectural challenge: close neighbouring dwellings meant managing privacy while still embracing the coastal setting. The design needed to look outward without overexposure, and inward without feeling enclosed.

Achieving this equilibrium relied heavily on the careful placement and articulation of apertures throughout the home. Windows and doors became both a practical necessity and an architectural opportunity. To achieve the right result, the collaboration between architect, builder and glazing specialists became critical, with high-performance window and door systems from Architectural Window Systems (AWS) playing a central role in realising the home’s architectural ambition, as well as creating a comfortable environment for the homeowners.

Fabricator Vision Solutions Glass & Aluminium was engaged early in the process, prior to the slab being poured, working alongside architect Rheitsma & Associates and builder Gray Construction to resolve details before construction commenced. 

“Early involvement helps ensure the best possible outcome for both the build and the client,” says Vision Solution’s Managing Director Brad Dennien. “It’s also the stage where we can think outside the box and explore what’s achievable from both a construction and aluminium window and door perspective.”

The result of that early collaboration is a series of thoughtfully resolved glazing systems from AWS that feel effortless, yet are underpinned by high performance. 

This begins at the home’s arrival sequence, which features a striking window formed using a custom-rolled 30x28 glazing channel. 

“The channel was recessed into the pre-formed slab, creating the impression that the glass is set directly into the concrete with no visible channels,” shares Brad. 

Alongside the window, the 618 Magnum door was used in the entry, establishing a strong first impression of precision and confidence.

Seamless flow between indoors and out

Another key architectural move is the flush thresholds that erase the boundary between inside and outside, giving the home seamless indoor-outdoor flow.

“All frames were detailed to be recessed at the bottom,” shares Brad. “Some doors were installed into drains provided by Gray Construction, while other doors and windows were set into rebates.”

The 618 system and the 400 Series from Architectural Window Systems were selected due to their flat sill profiles, allowing a flush finish internally and externally. 

In the master ensuite, a more intimate expression of indoor-outdoor living is achieved through the use of an AWS 411 bifold door opening to an outdoor shower. This connection allows the garden to become an extension of the bathing space, creating an experience that is both open and private. 

“This allows the garden to flow into the space,” says Brad, “creating a very open yet protected room.”

Beyond the primary openings, operable glazing plays an important environmental role. Breezway louvres were integrated into gallery spaces to support passive ventilation and thermal comfort, allowing the home to respond naturally to changing conditions. These systems were chosen for their proven performance and compatibility with the broader AWS suite.

Support from AWS extended beyond the core systems themselves. AWS assisted Vision Glass in sourcing custom powder-coated handles to meet the clients’ brief, adding a layer of refinement that elevates the tactile experience of the doors. The result is a cohesive, high-end finish that aligns with the architectural language of the home.

“These products were selected for their function and practicality,”  shares Brad. “I wouldn’t install anything in a client’s home that I wouldn’t be happy to have in my own.”

The result is a home where architectural intent and technical solutions are closely aligned. Through carefully considered glazing, seamless thresholds and high-performance systems, The Rising Sun achieves a balance of openness and privacy that responds directly to its coastal setting. More than a visual outcome, the window and door systems support the experience of the home and how it’s lived in, connecting the homeowners to light, air and landscape.