Fleurieu Beach House | Max Pritchard Architects

Sweeping views of hills, beach, rocks and ocean, inspired the fan shaped plan form of this two level holiday house. Large bifold doors open out onto generous timber decking, and the kitchen extends out to a sheltered barbeque area, encouraging a relaxed holiday lifestyle. There is a sense of privacy and interest from the street with the curved walls of timber and iron, but on entering, the full extent of the spectacular view is revealed through the sweeping arc of glass and the sculptural stair. Strong colours, bright furniture, sculptural stairs all add to the sense of fun and relaxation. Raw galvanised steel, corrugated iron, and natural finished timber, provide a timeless rural aesthetic. Conceptual Framework The clients desired a relaxing holiday house that maximises the potential of the site with its sweeping views to the east and north over the beach. Public and Cultural Benefits Orientation for winter solar gain, durable economical materials, functional design and sculptural form, provides a model for holiday houses in the unique bay. Relationship of Built Form to Context The long, arcing plan form following the shape of the land built into the hillside, results in a form sympathetic to site levels, views and sun. Materials of corrugated iron and timber are timelss and appropriate in a rural coastal setting. Program Resolution Clients report a great sense of relaxation and well being. Cost/Value Outcome Costs per m2 are comparable or cheaper than most one‐off designed houses. Achieved through simple, economic construction. Sustainability Efficient passive design with orientation for winter sun, but exclusion of summer sun with wide roof overhang. The narrow floor plan form and large openings allow ventilation to provide summer cooling. All roof water is collected for reuse and waste water is treated on site.