A holiday home set amongst the sand dunes on Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula. New works included a second-level addition, master-bed, ensuite and retreat to take in 180-degree ocean views. A major renovation of the existing created cloistered outdoor spaces for entertaining and a sheltered area for an extensive vegetable garden.

We reinvigorated a home, weary from years of make-do renovations by previous owners. We needed to rationalise and transform the various areas to work as one, well considered home. Built on the dunes, 150m from Bass Strait saw the house ravaged by salt and sand. What gave this location its appeal also worked to its detriment. It needed major remedial works and considered outdoor fittings and materials to work with the harsh environment. Maintenance was a key consideration. Marine-grade fittings and solid timber able to age and weather were part of the selection.

We created views and beach access as well as cloistered, sheltered spaces for year round outdoor entertaining. In Victoria this means a sizable outdoor fireplace. We split the house in two with a timber arbour, defining entry and containing outdoor entertaining areas. This offers areas for adult guests one-side and kitchen, living on the other. Children are housed on the lower level beneath the main living area facing the garden. Creating a viable vegetable garden directly opposite Bass Straight was a considerable test. The garden is well set-down on the leeward-side, creating its own microclimate. Concrete blade-walls shelter the area, keeping the salt and wind at bay.