Sensory Immersion – Camillo House by Blair Smith Architecture and CS Studio

A boutique accommodation offering, Camillo House is tucked away from the main beach as a secluded and restful retreat. Blair Smith Architecture and CS Studio work to ensure each new and renovated element responds to the natural surrounds whilst contributing to the narrative of the home and its contemporary coastal charm.

Like with many coastal residences, there is a love for location. The desire to immerse oneself within such a reclusive and disconnected setting is what drew the current owners to purchase the abode, especially after realising its potential to become a relaxing guesthouse. By imbuing the spaces with contemporary relevance and ensuring the exterior could withstand the coming chapters, Blair Smith Architecture and CS Studio masterfully craft an encompassing experience for guests.

The desire to immerse oneself within such a reclusive and disconnected setting is what drew the current owners to purchase the abode, especially after realising its potential to become a place for accommodation.

One of the priorities for the renovation was ensuring all works stepped lightly on the existing site. Through a minimisation of building waste and re-use of existing materials, the need for newly sourced elements was reduced. Expressing a love of the area extends into the use of locally sourced veneers and hardwoods for the exterior and interior. The thermal performance of the building was carefully considered to provide comfort for visitors, and the optimisation of the northern orientation also ensured plenty of sunlight. With great respect to the existing context, the approach of the architect is one that captures a sense of place through spirit, retaining a quaintness and charm unique to the area.

As the form tucks away into the rear beaches of Blairgowrie, there is a further layer of disconnection that was key to furthering the narrative of the home. With framed views out to the surrounds and the nearby beach, encouraging a sense of flow between inside and out was important. Therefore, the original and saturated palette is reworked to align with a lively interior, complemented by deep tones of timber. Through a process that prioritised dissolving indoor-outdoor thresholds, the focus was to retain the essence of the residence and ensure it could be shared, loved and experienced for years to come.

With great respect to the existing context, the approach of the architect is one that captures a sense of place through spirit, retaining a quaintness and charm distinctive to the area.

Through a considered and adaptive re-use of materials, each renovated feature of Camillo House – inside and out – seamlessly responds to the natural surrounds. Blair Smith Architecture and CS Studio employ a holistic approach to reconnect the home to the site and create a dwelling that is peaceful and indicative of place.