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Casual Australian House Inspired by Flotsam Strewn on the Beach

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Thick chunks of Australian hardwood define a contemporary beach home on Sydney’s Freshwater Beach.

Its architectural style makes a  reference to the rough beach shacks that line the beach at the base of the nearby headland cliffs.

The seemingly haphazard mix of woods is intended to suggest jetsam tossed upon a rocky headland beach.

The idea was to recreate the effect of a weathered timber crate shelter under a raised viewing platform.

Adjustable walls and screens create protected and secluded spaces.
An internal courtyard distances the surrounding homes.

With a palette of concrete, hardwood, glass and copper left in their raw state, the house embodies a feeling of ease, creating a relaxed family home.

The small site has a dramatic outlook over the beach and ocean towards North Head.

Bedrooms are placed apart from each other with their own views for privacy.

The design is based on the family members’ needs for both privacy and togetherness.

An elevated living plane offers a wide prospect of the beach and ocean headland where the family gathers to enjoy the prospect above the beachside bustle.

The casual beach house was designed by the Surry Hills-based practice Brewster Hjorth Architects.