Having lived on the expansive property for some years, the client’s intention was to demolish their existing aged residence, and re-develop to take advantage of the spectacular bay views. The irregular-shaped corner site of 6821m2 in Mt.Eliza, offered spectacular 180o views across Port Phillip Bay and to Mornington Yacht Club. The site featured a slope of increased steepness toward the Northwest corner. Beautiful established gum trees of significant age and size lined the perimeter of the site and road reserve. The client’s required a family home to share with their two teenage children, plus a guest bedroom for visiting relatives. In addition, the brief called for on-site boat, caravan and trailer storage. To prevent the residence from appearing lost on the land, we opted not to accommodate the boat/caravan storage in a detached structure or shed, but to incorporate it into the main body of the house.
The resulting elongated façade created and extreme line, and enabled placement of the garaging facilities at one end, balanced by the lightly suspended children’s wing at the other. Attracted to timber for its natural and sustainable qualities, we deliberately chose to clad majority of the residence in Silvertop Ash. The timber is intended to grey over time and sit harmoniously within the surrounding gum treed environs. Its naturalness is in contrast to the Alucobond, Exotec Façade Panel System and rendered surfaces, but the material specifications work together with undeniable synergy. Shape and form were used in a combination of solid elements, blade walls and cantilevers to purposefully guide the journey through the home. Upon entering, an ascending staircase to the right reaches the guest bedroom, powder room, gym, laundry and garaging facilities, although one instinctively leads left into primary living space. An elevated ceiling area with perimeter windows, protected by calculated eaves, sends diffused light through the lounge and dining area.
The sleek lines of the kitchen are protected from clutter as an expansive scullery area with private desk is accessed via an integrated veneer panel door. An adjacent floating staircase ascends to the master bedroom and study in the upper storey. The ensuite incorporates a portal window, which peers through the master bedroom for appreciation of the breathtaking view whilst showering. Beyond the kitchen, a sliding wall offers separation to the rumpus and children’s bedrooms. These bedrooms are given access to a dual ensuite, entering into a privatised vanity area with a translucent screened shower positioned between. The beautiful outlook remains ever present throughout the home, with every living space and bedroom sharing in the enviable water views.