Culburra Beach House by Virginia Kerridge Architect

Perched along the coastal landscape of Culburra Beach, this modest artists’ retreat by Virginia Kerridge Architect is elevated by an array of bespoke details and features, resulting in a dwelling that nurtures creativity.

With a roofline shaped like the windswept trees that line the coast, this home sits back from the beach and quietly tucks itself behind a stretch of dunes, surrounded by native shrubs and grasses. Its dark metal cladding, paired with weathered Corten steel elements, helps it blend further into the landscape so that nature remains the focus. After recent wildfires swept through the area, the house was designed with safety in mind – its concrete walls are prefabricated for extra strength, and the surrounding low shrubs were carefully chosen to offer natural protection.

With a roofline shaped like the windswept trees that line the coast, this home sits back from the beach and quietly tucks itself behind a stretch of dunes.

The home wraps in an L-shape around a central garden, creating calm, sheltered spots to enjoy when the wind picks up. Landscape designer Jane Irwin worked with a harmonious mix of materials – concrete blocks, pavers and a range of endemic plants chosen to support the regeneration of the surrounding bushland. Trees and a stretch of lawn grow around the timber decking, blurring the lines between the home and its environment.

Timber features throughout the interior – in the walls, ceilings, upstairs floors, cabinetry, stairs and balustrades – bringing a warm, cabin-like feel that complements the bush greens and sea blues just outside the windows. Downstairs, polished concrete floors offer a grounded contrast while also creating a seamless visual connection to the patio and deck areas beyond.

This tucked-away dwelling nurtures creativity through its strong connection to the great outdoors.

Owned by a pair of artists who work across pottery, painting and music, the house includes a flexible studio space equipped with an electric kiln and stainless-steel workbench. When the couple are away for extended periods, the space can double as a garage. Upstairs, the private main suite looks out over the beach, with large sliding doors opening onto a wraparound deck framed by a fine, warm-toned metal railing.

Solar panels line the roof, while an electric car charger and battery storage help support self-sufficiency and future-proof the residence. Sustainability is woven throughout, with recycled hardwood timber and VOC-free materials used across the interiors. Whether approached via the winding track from the beach or the quiet cul-de-sac dotted with beach shacks, this tucked-away dwelling nurtures creativity through its strong connection to the great outdoors.

Architecture and interior design by Virginia Kerridge Architect. Build by Bricon Projects. Landscape design by Jane Irwin Landscape Architecture.