Openly Embracing – House on the Bay by Decus Interiors

Words by Bronwyn Marshall
Architecture by Decus Interiors
Photography by Dave Wheeler
Build by Zorzi

Inspired by its enviable positioning along the coast, House on the Bay is a love letter to living with water, expressed through openness and outward connection. Decus interiors carefully intertwines three distinct zones to allow for harmonious multi-generational living, layered with rich textures and tactility.

Nestled into the Margaret River region, House on the Bay epitomises the slow and laid-back life that is experienced by those lucky enough to occupy the coast. With façades that open generously to the water in front, there are constant reminders of place at every vista with the framed portals bringing the outside in. As a home for its multi-generational occupants, appropriate zoning to allow for separation when needed and an element of flexibility were necessary. Decus Interiors carefully curates the experience of the home to reflect the comforts of a luxury resort, while being familiar and representative of those who reside there.

Decus Interiors carefully curates the experience of the home to reflect the comforts of a luxury resort, while being familiar and representative of those who reside there.

Essentially comprised of three areas, the communal living spaces facilitate a coming-together in the centre and represent the more active areas of the home. In accommodating the various ages of those who visit, there is an element of robustness integrated into the design as the base, which is further softened through other layered elements. Built by Zorzi, House on the Bay is also an expression of locality. The clients wanted to source furniture and fittings as close to home as possible to reflect both a crafted nature and to support local artisans. The spaces then become uniquely representative of the home’s context, made all the richer through a handmade touch.

Throughout, comfort remains a priority. As a welcoming and amiable home for its varied occupants, the needed resilience of a family home sits alongside elevated and considered detailing. Despite its location, there was a directive to avoid a typified coastal aesthetic. Instead of white washing everything, a continued conversation with context was embraced. Natural stone and local timber are utilised throughout, with hand-glazed tiles brought to life in colours that reflect the surrounding tones of eucalypt and of clay.

Nestled into the Margaret River region, House on the Bay epitomises the slow and laid-back life that is experienced by those lucky enough to occupy the coast.

Combining a protection from the elements and an operable openness, House on the Bay beautifully navigates its conditions by finding comfort in celebrating the site. Decus Interiors enriches the everyday through a nuanced curation, embracing the location by living openly with the natural environment.