AdeB

Queenscliff House

Cost

AUD $1.8 million

Project type

Residential

Architects

SJB Architects

Completion date

2014

Photography

Jamie Diaz-Berrio

A modest, refined rural retreat commands a small prominent corner site opposite a vast open grassed reservation next to water. Sweeping views of Swan Bay, a broad flat-water renowned as a bird sanctuary, dominates its western outlook. Tea trees shroud a historic railway track to the north.

A simple composition of gable roof forms was assembled to evoke a comfortable sense of home and familiar welcome, in particular from the approach roads. This design of friendly, simple forms, offers order and composure. The unedged softly curving roads with the benefit of wide grassed verges and the generous grassed open area of the reservation evokes a special country setting.

The single level plan arrangement is clear and rational and extends right across the full length of the site. The studio was set apart to maintain the modest overall scale and to provide an ability to read another element or façade of the home from within.

The vaulted spaces of the main living room and bedrooms add a dramatic and generous spatial quality to this home. The restricted palette of materials and finishes are of the highest quality and its application and detailing is the signature characteristic of this fine home.