...A timeless family home guided by principles of natural light, ventilation and well considered functionality.

A fresh new face

The Sandstone Beach House is an architect designed family home. Principles of natural light, ventilation and well considered functionality guided the renovation of an existing cottage. Located in Cottesloe, the existing single storey cottage abutted a mirrored residence. The owners of both properties wished to carry out significant external and internal renovations to upgrade the darkly lit brick cottages into a pair of timeless homes characterised by distinctive sandstone portals. The renovations took care to maintain the pairing through architectural character. The two homes' massing were designed to complement each other and add to the streetscape of the neighbourhood.

A contemporary palette

Located within 200 metres from South Cottesloe beach, the Sandstone Beach House uses materials that reflect a relaxed, coastal lifestyle. Significantly increased wall and window openings better connect the inside to the outside and maximise natural light and ventilation. Durable aluminium window and doors replaced old small timber french doors which did not seal well and required ongoing maintenance. Perforated aluminium mesh  gates and sliding doors give the home security, privacy and establish a contemporary architectural language. The screens also allow for cross ventilation, keeping the home feeling breezy and comfortable. A uniform material palette provided the home with a timeless, visual aesthetic. Natural sandstone and limestone tiles feature on the exterior and interior of the home. These materials reference the site’s coastal surrounds.

Renovating to a constrained budget

Where budget constraints may not allow for building a new home, renovations are a way of significantly improving your existing home. This supports the values of re-use and sustainability. Gutting the existing cottage and modifying the layouts was an effective way to meet budget and attain a contemporary lifestyle. In the original home design, there was a distinct lack of north winter sunlight and ventilation which left the home feeling cold and dark. The renovation addresses this through an architectural expression of a portal form, angled to draw the natural light and north winter sun deeper into the interiors.

Renovation works gutted and reconfigured the home internally. Gardens and courtyards were cleared and externally reconfigured. Separate zones were provided for a family of four. The main kitchen hub extends outwards to a private courtyard. This combined BBQ and outdoor living area is a comfortable alfresco area to spend time outside. A brilliant blue plunge pool surrounded by a backdrop of frangipani trees lies to the south of the courtyard. The garage gained an additional third enclosed car bay by reducing a once oversized drying court. The new garage now offers future empty nesters storage for a boat, caravan, gym, study, home office or craft room.