River of Life by Sandbox Studio

Designed with the needs of a growing family in mind, River of Life features fluid and interconnected spaces that effortlessly blend with the curated landscape. Sandbox Studio prioritises sustainability, ensuring that every material chosen minimises environmental impact while remaining relevant to the surrounding context.

Located in Curl Curl, the residence, aptly named River of Life, is an homage to its Indigenous roots. Embracing the heritage of the site while integrating with the surroundings, the home rests upon a foundation of light masonry. Serving as a tranquil sanctuary for the owners, the residence welcomes the elements, allowing for natural airflow and abundant illumination within. Drawing inspiration from the traditional architectural styles of the area, Sandbox Studio reimagines the existing typology with vertical timber weatherboard panelling, enhancing the scale of the form. The subdued hues of the exterior palette echo the coastal landscape, enveloping visitors in a serene and retreat-like atmosphere from the moment they arrive.

Serving as a tranquil sanctuary for the owners, the residence welcomes the elements, allowing for natural airflow and abundant illumination within.

While the overall form feels solid and linear, the interior reveals moments of graceful curvature, where custom-formed concrete guides movement through the spaces. As the owner was also the builder, the home became a canvas for many experimental endeavours. Ensuring optimal ventilation, the exterior was designed to open up and allow for hot air to escape and cool breezes to enter. Strategically positioned openings, as well as skylights above, were incorporated to infuse the interiors with ample sunlight while maintaining warmth amid the cooler elements.

Ensuring a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor realms was key in optimising the entirety of the site. Within the home, a sunken living area subtly delineates itself from the adjacent living spaces, kitchen and dining area while maintaining openness and accentuating the overall sense of spaciousness. Despite being only two steps, the transition is marked by a bespoke concrete step feature. Throughout the design, it was also important to create an immersive landscape experience, with carefully framed views and openings that invite the surrounding scenery indoors.

While the overall form feels solid and linear, the interior reveals moments of graceful curvature, where custom-formed concrete guides movement through the spaces.

Though mostly light in tone, the use of warm timber within River of Life serves to anchor the spaces, retaining a sense of openness as one moves through them. Sandbox Studio expertly balances traditional details with innovative touches, weaving elements of the past and present to craft a contemporary home that integrates comfortably with its surroundings.

Architecture by Sandbox Studio. Build by Real Constructions. Landscape design by Contour Landscape Architecture. Artwork by Jai Vasicek and Olive et Oriel.