This Hamptons shingle beach house sits on stilts six feet above the ground – perfect for seaside living

This blog post showcases a modern, three-level, three-bedroom beach house located on the Victorian coast in Point Lonsdale, Australia. Designed by builder David McDonald for his brother Peter, Peter's wife Lis, and their children Johanna (15) and Charlie (11), the home serves as a family retreat built to withstand the test of time while offering flexible holiday living. The design emphasizes natural materials, clean lines, and high-quality, durable finishes. The house incorporates several distinctive architectural elements, notably a central lap pool with a 12-person spa and a striking curved rammed earth wall. This eight-meter-high rammed earth wall was a deliberate choice to break away from traditional straight lines, adding a sophisticated, earthy touch to the seaside sanctuary. The construction of this feature required careful planning and heavy machinery, especially considering the pool was already in place. The builder aimed for a strong, contemporary design that would blend seamlessly with the surrounding established vegetation, ensuring longevity and timeless appeal. Inside, the home features an open-plan layout bathed in natural light. The kitchen and living area form the central hub, designed for family interaction and direct access to the northern deck and pool. The kitchen boasts European oak for the island benchtop and flooring, complemented by black facades and stainless-steel kickboards, adding a touch of luxury. The dining area continues this aesthetic with a round dining table and sculptural chairs that echo the kitchen island's curves. The entryway is designed to make a bold first impression with its dark and moody aesthetic. Other notable areas include a flexible study space offering stunning views over Point Lonsdale Lighthouse and Port Phillip Heads. Hallways feature timber flooring and railings, which, combined with the rammed earth walls, add warmth to the interior. Bathrooms incorporate natural textures with limestone tiles and European oak vanities, while playful lighting fixtures contribute an industrial, modern touch. Bedrooms, such as Charlie's room and the master bedroom, are enlivened with bright elements like Kip & Co bedlinen and an Ikea rug, providing a fun and contemporary feel. The master bedroom also includes a dark dividing wall to separate the sleeping area from the wardrobe. The exterior of the home features Australian hardwood timber cladding, chosen for its sustainability and ability to age gracefully, further contributing to the architectural integrity. Another favourite design detail of the builder is the cantilevered timber staircase that elegantly follows the curve of the rammed earth wall. The project was completed in 11 months, adhering to a pre-Christmas deadline for the family's holiday celebrations, showcasing the efficiency and dedication of the builder and his team in overcoming construction challenges to deliver a uniquely designed, durable, and aesthetically pleasing beach house. #RammedEarth #BeachHouse #CoastalLiving #ArchitecturalDesign #SustainableMaterials #FamilyHome #ModernElegance #IndoorOutdoorLiving #PointLonsdale #InteriorDesign

Field Architecture has completed a coastal home in Big Sur, California, characterized by chiseled stone walls and extensive glass, designed to immerse residents in nature. Situated on a rugged peninsula along the Pacific Ocean, the house's layout follows the natural topography, aligning with the cliff face and forming sheltered garden courtyards that provide protection from the elements. The site features existing cypress trees and a ravine, which the house integrates into its design. The residence is conceptually divided into two main sections by the ravine. One side hosts a traditional Japanese entrance pavilion, known as a genkan, while the other contains the primary living spaces of the main house. These two parts are connected by a glass-enclosed bridge that spans the ravine, creating a dynamic transition and offering framed views of the surrounding landscape, thus enhancing the connection between the inhabitants and their natural environment. The design emphasizes orchestrated movement through the house to continually present residents with views of nature. Rising two levels, the home is oriented to the west to maximize panoramic views of the ocean. In contrast, the eastern portion of the structure is partially embedded into the site, housing more private and sheltered rooms. A central kitchen features a sculptural island with organic forms, complementing the natural aesthetic of the home, and adjoins a terrace and an infinity pool, further blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor living. The material palette primarily consists of wood and stone, chosen for their complementary textures and qualities that echo the local landscape. Facades are clad in quarried limestone, laid in thin courses to mimic the striations found in the region's cliffs. The walls are faceted, resembling chiseled rocky outcrops, which further integrates the architecture with its rugged surroundings. A thin roof plane extends beyond the building's footprint, offering protection from the sun and wind while large expanses of glass allow for expansive views and ample natural light. Clerestory windows, positioned between the walls and roof, ensure continuous natural light throughout the day and across seasons, illuminating the interior spaces. Inside, wide-plank flooring made from reclaimed teak provides a calm and cohesive foundation. Teak is also utilized for the exterior deck and an engawa—a wooden or bamboo ledge typically found in Japanese architecture—which runs along the northern elevation of the main house, facing the ravine. This element further reinforces the architectural dialogue with nature and Japanese design principles. Field Architecture, a firm led by Stan and Jess Field, has a portfolio of California projects including a copper-clad Sonoma Valley house and a synagogue in Palo Alto with a salvaged wood lattice. #FieldArchitecture #BigSurHouse #CaliforniaArchitecture #CoastalHomeDesign #SustainableMaterials #ModernArchitecture #NatureIntegration #LuxuryHomes #ResidentialDesign

Allyson and Paul Riser, who annually vacation along Highway 30A in Seaside, Florida, embarked on a project to build a family retreat on a narrow, challenging lot in the heart of Seaside. Initially skeptical of the neglected strip of land, which they mistook for overflow parking, the Risers were ultimately convinced by its unparalleled location—catty-corner from Seaside’s town square and a short walk from the beach, offering wide views of the Gulf of Mexico. This prime location was a critical requirement for their large family, consisting of four grown children and a daughter-in-law. To overcome the constraints of the unusual lot size and accommodate their family's needs, the Risers enlisted Seaside architect Ty Nunn and Birmingham interior designer Fran Keenan. Their primary objective was to create sufficient bedrooms and gathering spaces, while Allyson also sought to infuse the new Florida build with the character and timelessness found in the old coastal homes of the South Carolina Lowcountry. Nunn designed a three-story house, one room deep and three rooms wide, with the kitchen and main living area located on the top floor to maximize the exceptional views. Keenan faced the challenge of incorporating the Lowcountry aesthetic, which often features large, low-slung roofs, into a tall three-level structure. A trip to Paris provided an unconventional solution: installing large, pop-out windows in the roof to flood the third-floor living area with natural light, creating a bright and airy space that became the focal point of the home. Inside, Keenan and her colleague Sara Walker curated an interior that reflected the surrounding landscape without resorting to overt beach-themed decor. The color palette, inspired by the blues and greens of the Gulf, features grayish blues, whites, muted turquoise, and faded aqua, fostering a sense of peace and serenity. The light-colored floors were specifically chosen to mimic sand, cleverly concealing any beach sand tracked in by the family. The design incorporated a mix of antique furnishings and architectural details such as wide-wood-paneled walls and detailed casing to give the new house an immediate sense of history and character. Keenan emphasized that using "old things" helps keep a space fresh and unique, breaking away from conventional design norms. The decor was further enhanced by layers of art, including framed textiles and pressed botanicals, adding personal touches and fostering conversation. A notable feature is the stairwell art gallery, filled with over 120 vintage nautical paintings collected from various vendors across the Southeast, including estate sales in Little Rock, making an otherwise functional space a vibrant display of personal history and curated taste. A large coastal landscape painting, discovered at Scott Antique Markets in Atlanta, became a centerpiece in the sons' room, symbolizing a nostalgic piece that could be passed down through generations. Ultimately, the home serves as a cherished gathering place for the Riser family, facilitating connection and creating lasting memories as their children grow. #BeachBungalow #CoastalHome #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #SeasideFlorida #FamilyRetreat #ArchitecturalInnovation #AntiqueDecor #NauticalArt

This article details the transformation of a circa-1980 beachside home in Ventura, California, which was purchased by a Los Angeles-based couple with two young children at the beginning of the pandemic. The homeowners enlisted designer Jess Diab to revitalize the property, which was initially described as "clunky" with irregular shapes and compartmentalized social areas. Diab's primary goal was to celebrate the existing geometry of the space while introducing a sense of flow and movement, despite the house's three-story layout and numerous stairs, which often made it feel disjointed. The design strategy focused on enhancing the home's inherent curves and improving its functionality without undertaking major structural changes. The house features guest bedrooms on the lower level, living, dining, and kitchen areas on the middle floor, and a partially open, lofted main bedroom. Diab addressed the 'clunky' feel by creating design 'moments' throughout the house, aiming to give the illusion of seamless movement. For instance, a funky stairwell niche was transformed into a calming focal point using textured plaster walls, a sculptural side table, and a decorative clamshell, encouraging occupants to pause and appreciate the space. In the guest bedrooms, located on the beach level, Diab aimed to create a hotel-suite ambiance. This was achieved by incorporating simple nightstands and pendant lights. A custom-cushioned panel, sourced from Drop It Modern fabric, inspired the design of a three-ball side table. This table, originally an inexpensive piece, was spray-painted to mimic a high-end designer item, demonstrating a resourceful approach to budget-conscious design. The lofted main bedroom, initially narrow and awkward, was made more inviting with a custom channel-tufted headboard that introduced horizontal lines, visually broadening the space. The kitchen's design also incorporated the theme of movement and connection to the surroundings. A new marble countertop and backsplash, featuring dark green and gray veining, were selected to evoke the Pacific Ocean. The visible edges of the shelves were meticulously book-matched to create a swirling, watery effect. An upper shelf was strategically placed to ensure easy access to essentials like coffee and mugs for guests. Storage was a significant consideration, especially since the homeowners needed to accommodate up to 15 people. Diab collaborated with professional organizer Julianna Strickland of Space Camp Organizing to not only stock the home with family favorites but also to design and install custom cabinets. These cabinets, framing the dining nook, provided ample storage for pantry items and dishes, essential for entertaining large groups. The curved theme was extended to the hardware, with Park Studio handles adorning both the kitchen cupboards and bedroom closets, ensuring a cohesive design language throughout the home. #BeachHouse #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #CurvedDesign #SpacePlanning #CoastalDecor #StorageSolutions #JessDiabStudio #VenturaHome

This article details the transformation of a circa-1980 Ventura, California, beach house, purchased by an LA-based couple with two young children at the beginning of the pandemic. The homeowners enlisted designer Jess Diab, formerly a project manager for Sarah Sherman Samuel, to redesign the space. The house, which was the only oceanfront property available at the time, presented a unique design challenge due to its irregular shapes, compartmentalized social areas, and a 'clunky' three-floor layout. Diab's design philosophy centered on celebrating the home's existing geometry, particularly inspired by its swooping entry stairwell. The primary goal was to enhance the sense of flow throughout the three-story structure without undertaking major structural changes. The layout includes guest bedrooms on the lower, beach-level floor, living, dining, and cooking areas on the middle floor, and a partially open, lofted main bedroom. Diab aimed to create numerous "moments" and visual movement to counteract the feeling of simply navigating a series of staircases. Key design elements and strategies implemented by Diab included plastering the walls of a funky stairwell niche to create a soothing, textured aesthetic. This area was further adorned with a sculptural side table and a large decorative clamshell, designed to encourage a momentary pause before guests exit the home. In the guest bedrooms on the ground floor, Diab opted for a hotel-suite ambiance, incorporating simple nightstands and pendant lights. A notable design choice in these rooms involved custom cushioned panels framing the headboard, inspired by Drop It Modern fabric. A black side table, originally an inexpensive find, was spray-painted to elevate its appearance and complement the graphic patterns in the room. The lofted main bedroom initially suffered from a long, narrow configuration, resembling a 'bowling alley' where the bed could only be placed on one wall. To mitigate this awkward orientation, Diab introduced a custom channel-tufted headboard to visually expand the room with horizontal lines. In the kitchen, a new marble countertop and backsplash featuring dark green and gray veining were selected to evoke the Pacific Ocean. The slab yard meticulously book-matched the visible edges of shelves to create a continuous, swirling, watery effect. An upper shelf was strategically placed to keep essentials like coffee and mugs accessible for guests. Addressing storage concerns, Diab collaborated with professional organizer Julianna Strickland of Space Camp Organizing. Beyond stocking the house with the family's preferred snacks, the project involved building custom cabinets to accommodate surplus kitchen items. Given the homeowners' need to host up to 15 people, Strickland designed extra storage around the dining nook for pantry items and dishes. The curved theme was extended to these cupboards, which were finished with Park Studio hardware, a detail replicated in the bedroom closets. The collaboration with Strickland reportedly brought a sense of calm and order to the home's functional aspects. #HomeRenovation #BeachHouseDesign #InteriorDesign #CoastalLiving #SpacePlanning #CurvedArchitecture #VenturaCalifornia #JessDiabStudio #StorageSolutions

The RH Beach House concept offers a comprehensive solution for furnishing seaside residences, drawing inspiration from various stylish coastal living destinations worldwide, including Mykonos, Sydney, St. Barts, and Malibu. This concept integrates products from over one hundred of RH's existing collections, making them accessible through both print source books and the company's website. The initiative introduces several new designer collaborations, notably featuring modular sofa collections developed by Paola Navone, Jan de Lintelo, and Los Angeles-based Jason Chauncey. These sofa designs are characterized by their easy elegance, relaxed silhouettes, low-slung proportions, deep seats, and loose cushions, contributing to a timeless aesthetic ideal for ocean-facing comfort. Beyond seating, the RH Beach House collection encompasses a wide array of lighting, textiles, additional furniture pieces, and decorative accents suitable for both indoor and outdoor environments. A notable furniture item is an oak brûlé bed frame designed by Luay Al-Rawi, which undergoes a high-heat finishing process to achieve a deep, caramelized tone and a distinctive crackled appearance. For outdoor settings, the collection includes mid-century-inspired poolside loungers by Mario Ruiz, featuring architectural frames now available in teak, paired with handwoven wicker backs and seats for enhanced durability and style. Furthermore, Piet Boon's renowned outdoor collection for RH, the Bonnare collection, is introduced for the first time in sustainably harvested teak. To complete the aesthetic, the RH Beach House concept incorporates several new rustic lighting designs. These include a handwoven blackened rattan pendant and another design inspired by traditional Indonesian fishing baskets. The overall offering of RH Beach House is distinguished by its rich textures, organic feel, and a luxurious yet comforting ambiance, aiming to replicate the desired atmosphere of a sophisticated holiday home. The collection's curated selection allows individuals to effortlessly imbue their coastal properties with a sense of refined tranquility and style, reflecting the diverse influences of global seaside living. #RHBeachHouse #CoastalLiving #InteriorDesign #LuxuryFurniture #OutdoorLiving #DesignerCollaboration #HomeDecor #FurnitureDesign #LightingDesign

This article showcases a Harwich Port home on Cape Cod that has undergone a significant renovation to fully embrace its oceanfront location. The interior design, spearheaded by Cambridge interior designer Tricia Luong, focuses on integrating the sea views into every aspect of the living space. The homeowners, a young family of three, purchased the 5,478-square-foot house, originally built in 1992, with the goal of making the ocean a central element of its design. The renovation involved opening up and brightening the space, strategically adding new windows to maximize the views. A fluid layout was implemented on the first floor to encourage easier movement and enhance visibility from the kitchen through the living areas to the outside. Luong meticulously planned the height of every light fixture and minimized window treatments facing the water to ensure an unobstructed connection to the ocean. The design aesthetic is a subtle coastal vibe, eschewing traditional nautical clichés. Luong incorporated muted blues, touches of turquoise, rattan, brass, and natural fibers like linen and seagrass throughout the home. Examples include a Cisco Home bed reupholstered in Villa Nova’s “Calvia River” fabric and Phillip Jeffries’s “Vinyl Magnetism” wallcovering in “Slate Current” in the bathroom, creating a sophisticated marine influence without being overpowering. The primary bathroom features white cabinets, Phillip Jeffries wallcovering, and Made Good mirrors adorned with small shells, radiating metallic and bright elements. Unique architectural features include circular windows in vaulted dormers above the dining room and primary suite, resembling portholes, which elevate the vantage point and draw in more light. Accordion glass doors in the cabana room provide direct access to the pool area and invite the ocean breeze indoors. An ombre bar-height dining table by Aronson Woodworks encourages casual interaction and fluid movement, complementing a round Made Goods table in the dining room used for game nights. Texture plays a crucial role in achieving the desired coastal feel, adding richness and warmth to the largely monochromatic palette. Concrete coffee tables, a weathered teak chaise, a rattan vanity, and white oak lining the walls and ceilings contribute to a minimalistic, serene vacation home atmosphere. The homeowners envisioned a bright and beautiful space with crisp whites and medium-toned blues, reflecting the ocean's colors and embodying a sense of relaxation and calmness, rather than strong contrasts. The project was executed by Cape & Islands Construction Co., with interior design by Tricia Luong Design and photo styling by Sean William Styling. #HomeDesign #CoastalDecor #InteriorDesign #HarwichPort #CapeCodHome #OceanView #RenovationProject #LuxuryHome #TriciaLuongDesign

This article showcases the transformation of a Cornish beachside house into a home filled with coastal charm, reflecting the owner Juliet Mayhew's journey from initial skepticism about the region's appeal to fully embracing its unique character. Initially, Juliet, an Australian, found Cornwall's shingle beaches a stark contrast to the white sands she was accustomed to. However, a sunny second visit, including a boat trip along the Helford River, changed her perspective, leading her to appreciate the special allure of the area. This shift in perception was crucial as she and her husband found a house in a prime, secluded location overlooking the sea, offering views of bobbing boats and lush oak-covered hills. The process of acquiring the property was a notable undertaking, requiring an early morning drive from London to place a successful bid before the house went to the open market. Following the purchase, the couple dedicated significant time to planning improvements, aiming to seamlessly connect the interiors with the stunning outdoor spaces. A key structural alteration involved creating an open-plan kitchen and sitting room by knocking through a wall, enhancing light and maximizing the sea views from all main rooms. The kitchen, which was an existing feature, received a stylish update with pale grey painted cabinets, and its large central workspace was designed for entertaining. As an experienced interior designer and party planner, Juliet meticulously curated the home's aesthetic over a year, drawing inspiration from the sea. Her approach involved extensive online searches for marine-themed decor, including rope lamps, fabrics with coral motifs, shells, boats, oars, driftwood stools, and a large compass. This intentional and overt embrace of nautical styling, rather than a subtle nod, infused the house with distinct character and visual interest. The sitting room, with its expansive windows, allows residents and guests to fully immerse themselves in the spectacular views, complemented by a vibrant color scheme that defines the coastal living space. The dining room's lively color palette mirrors Juliet's energetic personality and her love for entertaining, a central consideration in the home's redesign. Upstairs, the main bedroom was expanded to include a larger balcony, creating a space that evokes the feeling of a ship's deck. Juliet particularly enjoys sitting on the balcony and watching boats, finding it a source of deep relaxation. In contrast to the home's more vibrant areas, the guest bedroom offers a serene atmosphere, decorated in a calming palette of blues and neutrals, directly inspired by the surrounding coastal environment. Optimizing the outdoor living experience, the terrace was reconfigured after observing the sun's path throughout the seasons. This thoughtful adjustment allowed the couple to fully leverage the breathtaking views of the Cornish coastline. The entire renovation and decoration project underscore a deliberate design philosophy that blends personal taste with the natural beauty of the location, creating a harmonious and uniquely styled beachside residence. #CoastalHome #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #CornwallLiving #NauticalDecor #OpenPlanLiving #SeasideProperty #HomeStyling

This article explores six prominent beach house decor trends currently captivating designers across the Southern United States, aiming to transform coastal retreats into resort-style homes. The first trend emphasizes channeling nature by incorporating natural materials and greenery into interior design. Examples include sisal rugs, raw-edged wood tables, twig or vine lighting fixtures, houseplants, and elements like stone, sea glass, rattan, jute, and bamboo. Designs from Brad Ramsey Interiors, Cortney Bishop Design, and Spruce Interior Design are showcased, illustrating how these natural elements create serene and authentic beach house vibes, from Alys Beach, Florida, to Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina, and Sullivan's Island, South Carolina. The second trend focuses on the enduring popularity of shiplap in beach house aesthetics. Despite rumors of its decline, shiplap continues to be a staple in coastal homes, offering a casual yet elegant feel in various rooms, including living areas, kitchens, and bathrooms. Maggie Griffin, a Georgia-based designer, highlights shiplap's ability to add architectural interest, warmth, character, dimension, and texture, especially in monochromatic interiors. Illustrations include a Kiawah Island home featuring white shiplap against rich wood beams, a lakeside home on Lake Oconee, Georgia, demonstrating shiplap's versatility, and a Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina, residence combining shiplap with warm earth tones. Thirdly, the article delves into a fresh approach to sea-inspired accents, moving beyond traditional driftwood and seashells to embrace more eclectic and artistic elements. This includes unconventional items such as silver-coated tortoise shells and hand-painted surfboards. Examples feature a clamshell-shaped outdoor swing, a hand-painted surfboard as a focal point in a Sullivan's Island kitchen, silver-coated tortoise shells adorning a bedroom wall in a lakeside home, and a modern neon "dive in" sign adding a contemporary touch to a Kiawah Island home. The fourth trend highlights the pervasive use of blue, often seen as a direct extension of the ocean itself, as the preferred color for beach houses. Blue hues, ranging from slate to aquamarine, indigo, and navy, are employed in various capacities, from subtle vignettes to prominent exterior colors. Derek Van Mol of Van Mol Restoration explains that blue evokes feelings of calmness and serenity, mirroring the tranquil nature of the ocean. The article showcases a Florida sunroom with blue walls and accent pillows, a kitchen with blue floral wallpaper and dishware, and a coffee table vignette with blue books in Pawleys Island, South Carolina. Fifth, the principle of "Don't Go Overboard" advocates for a minimalist approach in beach house decor. This trend emphasizes a clean, crisp aesthetic, where carefully selected furniture pieces and thoughtfully placed art and mementos create a relaxed and comfortable environment, devoid of clutter. Libby Patrick of Sims Patrick Studio, an Atlanta-based boutique hotel designer, supports this shift towards simplified environments. Visuals include a simple yet impactful corner in a Sullivan's Island home, a tranquil white-on-white room with muted seaside tones in Alys Beach, and a sitting area in a beach house that establishes a coastal ambiance without excessive ornamentation. Finally, the article discusses the trend of letting walls "talk" through the strategic use of wallpaper. Wallpaper has emerged as a prevalent interior design trend, making consistent appearances in oceanside abodes. It is utilized in various ways, from subtle ceiling applications to bold accent walls. Maggie Griffin notes that wallpaper provides an easy way to introduce color and pattern, even for those who are color-shy, especially in secondary areas. Featured examples include a bedroom in Wrightsville Beach with a pink wallpapered ceiling, custom bunk beds set against a patterned wallpaper backdrop, a bathroom where natural light enhances beautiful wallpaper, a festive beachy wallcovering in a bedroom, and a pattern-on-pattern wallpaper design adding textured depth to another bedroom in Wrightsville. #BeachHouseDecor #InteriorDesignTrends #CoastalLiving #NaturalElements #ShiplapDesign #SeaInspiredAccents #BlueInteriors #MinimalistDecor #WallpaperTrends

Robson Rak Architects have crafted their third rammed earth house on Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula, a sprawling residence deeply integrated into its natural surroundings. The design emphasizes a sense of solidity and embeddedness, largely achieved through the extensive use of rammed earth. This material choice was central to the clients' brief for a low-maintenance home on their ten-acre plot, a preference shared by the architects for its pure, inside-out building quality, where the material itself forms both interior and exterior finishes. The house is considered a subtle monument, possessing enduring qualities without ostentatious grandeur. Initially, the clients envisioned a symmetrical, rectangular modernist building, but the architects, Kathryn Robson and Chris Rak, felt this design wouldn't adequately respond to the site's unique characteristics. Instead, they proposed a design that broke up the rigid rectangular form, introducing level changes and manipulating the edges to create a more dynamic and textured structure. Despite these modifications, the architects maintain that the house retains a modernist sensibility, albeit one that extends and adapts rather than adhering to a simple, gallery-like cube. Perched at the highest point of the site, the house maintains a low, lean profile, appearing to settle into the earth. Its southern facade features a tiered design, descending into the site with a series of single and double steps, a deliberate strategy to work with the natural slope of the land and create a gentle, quiet presence. The orientation of the house was influenced by a tall plane tree, which became a focal point for a large window in the main bedroom. From this central point, the house extends westward, incorporating a central volume for living, dining, and kitchen areas. A parents' retreat is located at the eastern end, a second living zone to the west, and three additional bedrooms line the northern edge. A terrace spans the southern side, offering views of a fernery at the lower part of the property. The southern orientation is a distinctive feature, designed to avoid the harshness of direct sunlight. The clients preferred a softer, ambient light, which the architects achieved through various strategies, including deep eaves, narrow clerestory windows, and a trio of skylights above the kitchen. These elements not only control light but also introduce diverse lighting conditions throughout the spaces. The design incorporates intimate pockets, such as a window seat next to a fireplace, which benefits from ample sunlight. The entry, an understated three-sided forecourt paved with sleepers and compressed gravel, is another notable space, praised for its quietness and symmetry. The interior design reflects these same qualities, utilizing a restrained palette of earth, glass, timber, and concrete. The materials are harmoniously combined, with slender aluminum window frames contrasting with the substantial four-hundred-millimetre rammed earth walls and polished concrete floors. Greyed timber surfaces, including a central spine wall that cleverly conceals services difficult to integrate into rammed earth, add texture. The architectural focus was on texture rather than vibrant colors or patterns, aiming for an easy-to-live-in space that feels earthy, tactile, and warm, yet timeless. Custom details, such as a bespoke front door handle crafted from found brass objects by an artist friend of the client and custom-designed side tables by Chris Rak, who has a background in sculpture, enhance the home's unique character. The children's bathroom features a carefully proportioned freestanding vanity set back from the wall to allow for floor-to-ceiling windows and linen curtains. The kitchen includes a central island encased in purple-grey tiles for socializing and a discreet butler's kitchen behind a sliding door for practical, everyday use, equipped with a second set of appliances, stainless steel benches, and ample storage. The success of the project is attributed to the exceptional site, a well-defined brief, and a collaborative relationship between the architects and the client. #RammedEarthHouse #RobsonRakArchitects #MorningtonPeninsula #SustainableArchitecture #ModernistDesign #LowMaintenanceHome #NaturalLightDesign #CustomDetails #InteriorDesign #SiteResponsiveArchitecture

This article highlights the design philosophy and execution of a beach house in Pulpos, Peru, owned by Bettina Lolas and designed in collaboration with Venezuelan-born designer Carlos Mota. The home is characterized by its open-air structure and a relaxed, bohemian aesthetic, eschewing traditional beach house tropes. Lolas, a creative consultant based in Lima, acquired the house in 2008, drawn to the laid-back atmosphere of the surfer town and the architecture of the 1980s Juvenal Baracco-designed property. Mota's design approach focused on creating a comfortable and unfussy environment where furniture and decor would gain character and patina over time from the coastal elements. For instance, the outdoor dining table is crafted from butcher's block wood, complemented by folding bamboo chairs that Mota painted black for added drama. The living spaces are kept minimal, emphasizing comfort over extensive furnishings, with a custom sofa banquette topped with pillows from John Derian serving as a key seating area. A notable design choice is the use of museum posters for wall art instead of expensive paintings, contributing to the home's carefree vibe. The primary bedroom features an Indian screen, painted white by Mota, which functions as a headboard, adding texture to the concrete walls, and is adorned with a vintage Turkish suzani bedcover. The bedroom also provides direct access to the pool area, where Mota extended a bamboo wall to enhance privacy from neighboring properties and incorporated a sculptural cactus garden around the pool's edge, chosen for its resilience to direct sun and heat. The collaboration between Lolas and Mota proved highly successful, leading to plans for a second beach house project in Máncora, northwestern Peru. The Pulpos beach house is described as a place where Lolas feels happy, free, and relaxed, particularly when enjoying the terrace overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The article underscores Mota's unique vision of a beach house that blends seamlessly with its natural surroundings while offering a distinctive and relaxed living experience. #CarlosMota #BeachHouse #PeruvianDesign #OpenAirLiving #BohemianStyle #CoastalDecor #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalRenovation #OutdoorLiving

Interior designer Ashley Gilbreath designed a high-rise coastal home in Perdido Key, Florida, for retired clients seeking a sophisticated yet relaxing second home. The design prioritizes relaxation while elevating the aesthetic beyond typical beach house styles. The clients, having retired after over 30 years of work, desired an elegant escape where they could spend significant time. Gilbreath ensured all furnishings were durable and family-friendly, utilizing tailored, washable slipcovers and performance fabrics, emphasizing that everything should be "lived in and loved on." A hallmark of Gilbreath's design in this project is the use of over-scaled accessories to create dramatic statements and unique elements in each space. She believes in "pushing limits" to make a space distinctive, exemplified by large art pieces and a prominent chandelier in the dining room. The color palette throughout the home predominantly features a spectrum of blues and greens, with notable elements like a turquoise wallcovering from Phillip Jeffries in the bar area. The living room features classic yet durable furnishings from brands such as CR Laine, paired with a practical Dash & Albert rug. A custom upholstered TV armoire offers a refined alternative to standard media cabinets. In the breakfast room, a chandelier from Ro Sham Beaux and large-scale natural art take advantage of the tall ceilings. The kitchen incorporates Parisian-style barstools from Serena and Lily, complementing the blue-and-white color scheme. Creative solutions for guest spaces include a wide headboard in a guest bedroom displaying vintage bathing suits across two twin beds. A small entryway is maximized with an aqua console, art by Alisa Koch, and baskets for storage. In another guest room, fabric-flanked nightstands hide storage, and antique fish prints adorn the bedside area. To optimize surface space in a compact guest room, sconces from Visual Comfort & Co were chosen, and wooden bowls were hung as textural art above the bed. As the penthouse was new construction, the focus was solely on furnishings and decorative elements rather than structural changes. Gilbreath introduced architectural interest through various means, such as grass-cloth walls and hanging glass shelves in the bar area. The design ensures that the interior elements enhance, rather than detract from, the stunning views of the quiet beachside setting in a state park. The overall goal was to create casual, elegant spaces conducive to making memories, a goal the designer successfully achieved. #BeachDesign #CoastalHome #InteriorDesign #AshleyGilbreath #LuxuryInteriors #FloridaRealEstate #SecondHome #HomeDecor #ElegantLiving

This blog post details the renovation journey of Mareenah and her husband, who transformed their Pasir Ris resale HDB flat in Singapore into a modern coastal-themed retreat for approximately $60,000. The couple, inspired by their coastal holidays in Australia and the Maldives, sought to create a serene and fun atmosphere reminiscent of a beach holiday home. They specifically looked for a well-used property with an existing open-concept layout to minimize hacking costs, eventually finding a suitable unit near Mareenah's parents' home. Their initial renovation budget was $45,000, but it increased to nearly $60,000 due to unforeseen costs related to electrical wiring, mosaic tiling, and local carpentry during a period of limited manpower. This figure excluded appliance and furnishing expenses. The design philosophy centered on a balance between modern aesthetics and coastal elements, utilizing pure, clean tones to allow for easy color accents. Soft curves were incorporated throughout the design to soften the space and enhance safety for their young child. While they appreciated arches, they used them judiciously in areas with too many right angles. Rattan elements were also strategically included to evoke a tropical retreat ambiance. The couple prioritized preserving the home's original layout to save on renovation costs while still achieving an open-concept feel. Key areas of the home underwent thoughtful transformations. In the entryway, a half-wall with an arch shelving unit was constructed to ensure seamless flow between shared spaces and enhance breathability. The living room's TV was placed in an unconventional spot, camouflaged as art over a sideboard, to encourage conversation. The dining room retained some false ceiling, which was reshaped into a box design, and a ceiling fan replaced a pendant light for added functionality. Wooden flooring in a herringbone pattern complemented the rattan furnishings, reinforcing the coastal theme. A curved kitchen peninsula effectively divided the kitchen and dining areas while adding usability. The kitchen featured open shelving for the upper half and closed cabinets below for ample storage, with an extended area to accommodate a laundry space, all adorned with appropriately-themed backsplash tiles. The master bedroom was extended into the original living space to create room for an L-shaped wardrobe, and an irregularly shaped window added a unique touch. An arch partition was used to conceal an odd-shaped beam, providing space for a future baby cot. The son's bedroom featured vibrant colors but maintained the coastal theme with its half-wall design. The common bedroom was furnished with an Ikea Hemnes dresser and daybed, offering both simplicity and functionality as a convertible double bed for guests, along with a dedicated study area. Both bathrooms were re-tiled without altering the plumbing layout, one featuring warm-toned terrazzo tiles and the other cooler marble-look tiles. The renovation process, unexpectedly prolonged by the COVID-19 pandemic, allowed Mareenah and her husband ample time for detailed planning and design, which they communicated effectively to their contractor, Majestic. They sourced additional vendors and furniture themselves to manage costs and find pieces that could adapt to future needs, including custom rattan furniture from Second Charm, timeless pieces from Castlery, decorative items from Island Living, and budget-friendly finds from Carousell, Marketplace, and Ikea. Despite a minor mishap with a false wall arch during window installation, the couple embraced these imperfections as part of their unique home. They emphasize that a home is a continuous project and advise thorough planning, especially for technical aspects like aircon and plumbing, to achieve both functional and aesthetically pleasing living spaces. #HDB #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #CoastalDecor #OpenConcept #DIYDesign #BudgetRenovation #SingaporeHomes #ResaleFlat

Architect Horace Gifford, renowned for his modernist designs, transformed New York's Fire Island starting in the 1960s, creating 63 homes. Among these is a notable 1967 residence located at 46 Schooner Walk, currently listed for $3.75 million by Jamie Winkler of Winkler Real Estate Inc. This five-bedroom beach house is situated on a coveted beachfront lot in the village of Ocean Beach, within the Summer Club community, offering unobstructed views where sand extends to the edges of its timber-slatted deck. The home exemplifies Gifford's signature style, characterized by natural cedar cladding on both its exterior and interior. It features floor-to-ceiling arched windows that provide extensive views of the beach and ocean. The design also incorporates subtle sculptural curves that complement the otherwise rectilinear structure. Entry to the residence is marked by a waist-high gate flanked by two curvy wooden storage units. The front door, positioned perpendicular to a gently sloping staircase, opens directly into the main living area. The main living space is defined by a dramatic barrel-vaulted ceiling and a long wall of sliding glass doors topped with curved clerestory windows. Gifford ingeniously extended these four barrel vaults to the exterior, forming a cedar canopy that partially shades the wraparound deck. The open-plan kitchen, which is part of this expansive area, also benefits from the impressive floor-to-ceiling windows, offering picturesque views. However, the kitchen maintains a cozier atmosphere with a lower, flat ceiling, which accentuates the spaciousness of the adjacent living and dining areas. The kitchen is outfitted with granite countertops, wooden cabinetry, and a mirrored backsplash. The principal bedroom is strategically located beyond the main living area, also featuring a wall of glass that overlooks the beach and matching clerestory windows, ensuring it shares the bright, open aesthetic of the common spaces. On the opposite side of the house, four additional bedrooms are connected to a landscaped yard. This yard includes a boardwalk leading to an outdoor seating area, and further back, a fence-enclosed outdoor shower and dressing area, enhancing the beach-living experience. Horace Gifford, originally from coastal Florida, began his architectural career in New York after earning his degree from the University of Florida. He later pursued a master's degree under Louis Kahn at the University of Pennsylvania but returned to his New York firm before completing his studies. His significant influence on Fire Island's architecture is well-documented in Christopher Rawlins's 2013 book, 'Fire Island Modernist: Horace Gifford and the Architecture of Seduction,' which highlights how his beach houses transformed the island's landscape and culture. Gifford passed away in 1992 at the age of 59 due to complications from AIDS, but his modernist designs continue to be celebrated for their timeless appeal and warm, inviting character. #ModernistArchitecture #BeachHouse #FireIsland #HoraceGifford #CedarDesign #BarrelVaultedCeiling #OceanfrontProperty #RealEstate #ArchitecturalHistory

This article details a contemporary 6,000-square-foot residence in Southern California’s Manhattan Beach, designed by Montalba Architects. The dwelling spans three floors on a long, deep lot, characteristic of the area's ocean-adjacent properties, and addresses the challenge of dense proximity while maintaining a sense of openness. The exterior features a pared-down palette of plaster, Douglas fir for the roof overhang, and Western red cedar for a textural screen wall, complemented by an abundance of glass, suggesting a voluminous interior presence. The interior design ingeniously mitigates any feeling of compression through a double-height interior courtyard open to the sky, serving as the central organizing element of the home. Entry to the house is through a screened, semi-outdoor garden space on the ground floor. This level contains a guest room and bath, mechanical and laundry areas, a large gym, and an expansive garage designed to accommodate up to six vehicles, catering to the owner’s passion as a Porsche collector. The "real" front door is situated on the second level, accessible via an exterior stairway. On the second floor, an entry foyer overlooks the central courtyard, which features a large maple tree. This alfresco amenity is visible from various points throughout the house, including from the third floor. This level is dedicated to the owners' private spaces, encompassing the primary ensuite bedroom and bath, as well as separate her and his offices. An additional deck expands the usable outdoor area. An indoor, light-filled stairwell connects to the third floor, strategically located to maximize natural daylight. David Montalba emphasizes that a consistent theme in his diverse architectural work is the sculpting and engaging integration of natural light into buildings. The third floor accommodates the main living areas, including a conjoined living, dining, and kitchen zone, alongside a family-media room. This family-media room opens through sliders to an outdoor living space, featuring the tall courtyard and a deck with a lap pool, overlooked by a vertical garden. This vertical garden enhances privacy and adds a unique aesthetic element. The design also incorporates a subtle 'slot of space' on the third floor, allowing for distant views of breaking waves from all rooms. Montalba’s modernist approach is evident in the minimal finishes and furnishings throughout the home. Flooring consists of white oak indoors, transitioning to ipe outdoors, designed to blur the boundaries between interior and exterior spaces. Other prominent materials include vertical-grain white oak for millwork and acid-blasted silver travertine from Belgium for the living room fireplace. The furniture selection features pieces from acclaimed designers such as Finn Juhl, Rodolfo Dordoni, Edward Barber & Jay Osgerby, Roberto Barbieri, and Roberto Lazzeroni. The home also integrates contemporary art from artists like Andy Moses and Casper Brindle, alongside a family heirloom Steinway piano, blending modern aesthetics with personal history. #MontalbaArchitects #ManhattanBeach #ContemporaryArchitecture #BeachHouseDesign #ModernistDesign #InteriorCourtyard #LuxuryResidential #SouthernCaliforniaHomes #ArchitecturalLighting