An Understated Retreat on The Mornington Peninsula – Retreat Residence M by CJH Studio

Located on the Mornington Peninsula, Retreat Residence M designed by CJH Studio is an inventive interpretation of a traditional Australian beach house, with modern muted tones that allow its residents to reconnect with the landscape.

Referred to Cassie James-Herrick, director of her eponymous architectural studio, through other family members, the owners of Retreat Residence M required a space that would allow them a reprieve from their demanding lives. As a home that is to exude a calm and serene feel, the brief also included minimal maintenance on a tight budget.

In order to achieve the desired outcome for Retreat Residence M, the designers consciously selected materials that were minimal and economical.

The relationship between architects and clients began with a strong focus on selecting the ideal material palette for the residence. Fortunately, the conversations and understanding between both parties formed a sympathetic relationship, fuelled by the need to create a design that encapsulates modern escapism.

In order to achieve the desired outcome for Retreat Residence M, the designers consciously selected materials that were minimal and economical. Instead of having stark white walls and other cool colours, warm tones of caramel, rust and soft olive, inspired by the surrounding bush landscape, brought depth into the home. Each room within the holiday home varies slightly in colour and aesthetics but remains consistent with the overall palette.

Maximising material selections and joinery elements ensured that the design did not exceed the tight budget. Economical tiles brought in texture and eliminated the need for stone. Bolder colours and additions of considered hardware honed interest on the otherwise pared-back joinery elements.

The relationship between architects and clients began with a strong focus on selecting the ideal material palette for the residence.

The Jardan Valley custom fabric sofa in the main living space was matched to the window heights to maximise the use of internal space and create a visual continuum in the main living area. The inclusion of a central fireplace surrounded by white brick is restrained but hugely impactful in anchoring the living space. As a result, it feels inviting, conversational and relaxing with the added flexibility of allowing clients to entertain guests.

As a new architectural build, several design elements of Retreat Residence M immediately stand out and add a sense of drama and theatrics to an otherwise muted material palette. The large double-pitched ceiling continues externally to add a cantilevered roofline over the deck area, and the internal pitched structure of the roof runs the entire length of one side of the house. Skylights were installed to brighten the central hallway and illuminate the home with natural light reflecting off surfaces. Facing north, Retreat Residence M takes advantage of natural light, especially within the living room. Bedrooms were oriented to the south to benefit darker areas for sound sleeping.

From a sustainability point of view, CJH Studio sought to only design spaces that were needed and desired, avoiding any unnecessary elements. All aspects within the holiday home were included to add practicality while remaining refined and considered. Using sheer curtains and shifts in muted tones, CJH Studio has successfully created a holiday retreat that is warm and alluring. Retreat Residence M emanates a feeling of serenity and allows clients to reconnect with their surroundings quietly.