Andrew Burges Architects

Surf Road House

Surf Road House
© Simon Whitbread Photo

Surf Road House

Nick Bell D&A

ARCHITECS
Nick Bell D&A

CONSTRUCTION
Yuncken Construction

DESIGN TEAM
Nick Bell, Poppi Denison, William Drew

LANDSCAPE DESIGN
Marcia Hosking

MANUFACTURERS
Sculptform, 2 Barrows, Aluminium & Glass Constructions, Decora

PHOTOGRAPHS
Simon Whitbread Photo

AREA
327 M²

YEAR
2013

LOCATION
Whale Beach, Australia

CATEGORY
House

Text description provided by architect.

The concept of this house is to create a space that mirrors its coastal setting, providing both a relaxed and uplifting environment for the owners.

Surf Road House
© Simon Whitbread Photo
Surf Road House
© Simon Whitbread Photo

The use of steel, glass and recycled timbers creates a modern home that feels calm and confident, reflecting the underlying principle of our practice which is to design houses that are understated yet impressive; simple yet meticulously detailed.

The building is conceived as two main elements. The main three-storey block contains the primary living and sleeping accommodation, each room enjoying an easterly aspect to the ocean, with services and circulation within a western spine. 

To the west is a separated two-storey pavilion, containing separated private garden accommodation.

Surf Road House
© Simon Whitbread Photo
Surf Road House
© Simon Whitbread Photo

The design of the main pavilion utilises a regular steel structure. The structural frame is emphasised to provide definition of individual areas within the main space.

Crucial to the design is a two-storey void to the structure’s southern end. This places the communal spaces at the heart of the house and connects the two main levels used by the permanent occupants.

Surf Road House
© Simon Whitbread Photo
Surf Road House
© Simon Whitbread Photo

The void also provides legible and inviting circulation within the building, to make the transition from the upper entry level to main living spaces. The main roof follows the slope up towards the west to capture natural afternoon light and, in combination with the void, maximises natural ventilation.

From this simple layout the design sought to reinforce the clarity of space and celebrate the interaction of the elements, surfaces and materials: steel, timber and glass.

Surf Road House
© Simon Whitbread Photo
Surf Road House
© Simon Whitbread Photo

When viewed from the beach and surrounds, the charcoal and timber palette ensures an understated recessive presence in keeping with the intended aesthetic and concept.

Surf Road House
© Simon Whitbread Photo
Surf Road House
© Simon Whitbread Photo


Surf Road House
© Simon Whitbread Photo
Surf Road House
© Simon Whitbread Photo


Surf Road House
Plan
Surf Road House
Plan
Surf Road House
Section / Elevation

Andrew Burges Architects
T +61 2 93317433 F +61 2 93317488
Andrew Burges Architects
32/61 Marlborough St, Surry Hills NSW 2010, Australia