Positioned on one of the Tweed Coast’s best beachfront sites, the ‘House Behind the Dunes’ has made the most of the unique opportunities afforded to it. Arranged over three levels, the inner layout offers each bedroom and living space a unique view towards the ocean and Norries Headland. Expansive decks provide an extension of the living space on each level. The ground level decks help connect the building to the dune landscape and pool area, the first-floor outdoor area wraps around the north-east and provides the ideal scene for entertaining and finally an intimate and private deck off the master bedroom creates an intimate area for the retired couple to relax with a sundowner.

The overall form is bold and sculptural, the robustness of the building a necessity that comes with the exposed beachfront condition and sometimes brutal climatic pressures. The minimalist layering of the building and hard edged material palette is punctuated with certain moments of delight that give the home lightness and elegance such as the double height entry foyer and corrugated timber wall lining that one can brush their hand across when walking up the stair to the living area.

Never fearful of making a statement, the form of the house unapologetically captures attention from the street, however when viewed from Cabarita’s shoreline, the house assumes a form of anonymity, carefully tucked away behind the dunes.

Location: Cabarita, NSW

Completed: 2020

Builder: Steve Kerr Homes

Photographer: Cameron Murchison