Williamstown

Beachy Modern house

Location: Williamstown, VIC

Type of Build: Alterations & Additions

Set at the bays edge in Williamstown Rifle Range reserve the client and Steele Studios worked meticulously to imagine what coastal living in Melbourne could be. With an existing 90’s title panel three storey townhouse as the canvas we went to work on creating something that is truly unique and inspiring in this up-and-coming costal town nestled o the edge of Melbourne City.

We saw the potential to create a lifestyle property that felt like a holiday home but for the everyday, a property that took full advantage of the many great aspects the wonderful location had to offer.

REIMAGINING THE SITE AS MODERN ART DECO

In the process of reimagining the site we proposed a complete stripping back of the existing structure and a re-planning of the layout to bring the dwelling into the 21st century. The architectural intent was to call on specific architypes expressing a clear, fresh, modern take on a nautical Art Deco style. Sumptuous, curved expanses of double-glazed windows to the North and Southern section of the dwelling employed to take advantage of the wonderful views over the parklands to the west and the conservation reserve to the South and the more private courtyard space to the north. These feature curved elements worked magic in softening the interfaces with this important and sensitive public domain, a technique that bode well with Hobsons Bay Shire Council.

Peeling back to Focus on rooms and spaces that flow

As we approach the property from the main informal entry from Hoffman Terrace you are encouraged to meander into the private ground floor courtyard space. A vibrant, light filled northern orientated space that welcomes visitors to the dwelling or the occasional garden party as the visitors are surrounded by a coastal Australian garden filled with miniature gums and the vibrant reds of the Kangaroo Paw.

Through the informal front doors, we enter a generous entry foyer that hints at more curved feature walls as we are presented with a view towards the South and the Bay entry doors that begins to hint at the wonderful views over the Bay that will be enjoyed as we journey through the residence.

The ground floor provides three bedrooms, 2 bathrooms and a European laundry with the feature north facing guest room located just off the entry providing a light filled flexible space that showcases the first of the curved windows. Towards the south entry is the first of the master suites, with a beautiful ensuite and walk in robe and sliding doors that open into the front garden space taking in the views of the parkland that abut the conservation reserve.

Timeless appeal balanced with modern functionality

As we are guided up the staircase to the first-floor space, we capture the first glimpse of the bay as we work our way into the space by the feature drum curved wall. The living space is generous and opens out into a large expansive open plan living. The glazed sliding door retracts fully to open living space to wonderful sea breeze as the living room transforms into an open balcony space.

Adjacent to the living space is one of our favourite and accidental spaces informed by hidden structural walls not marked on the original 90’s architectural drawings. The space was reimagined during construction as a small reading/ play nook offering one of the best views in the house as you project your view through the curved window over the bay.

The Kitchen to the North of the first floor is expansive with bench to ceiling north facing wrap around windows letting incredible light into the kitchen and dining during the day.  The oversized kitchen island encourages family and friends to gather and share food and stories, and maybe a little envy.

Adjacent to the kitchen is a functional butler’s pantry with window pass that connects to an intimate North/east facing breakfast balcony where the owners enjoy their morning coffee.

Quiet moments in comfortable spaces

And finally, we make our way up to the second-floor master suite. An expansive bedroom living space with dresser, walk-in robe and large ensuite with bath drenched by dappled northern light through the highlight window. As we stand in the bedroom and walk through the sliding doors to the balcony overlooking the bay and reserve, it is clear how special this property really is with views out to the heads and glimpse of the Portsea to Queenscliff ferry on those clear summer spring nights.

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