Coastal Modernism – South Coogee House by Partridge Daniels
With references paying homage to its coastal location, South Coogee House by Partridge Daniels exhibits a strong modernist aesthetic fitting of its beachside surrounds.
An early challenge throughout the design process for Partridge Daniels was taking this project on after a development application had already been approved. Partridge Daniels’ involvement did mean another round of council approvals, but it also meant that the footprint of the existing application placed limitations on the new build that was permitted to follow. The process did allow, however, for a shuffling of client expectations and a recalibration of their existing brief, resulting in a handsome, modern house that is functional without compromising on attention to detail or craftsmanship.
Deliberate dips and curves are a key feature of the streetscape exterior, with a teak-clad upper floor, fascia and balcony warming the otherwise stark white body of the building. Partridge Daniels suggests that the project exhibits a touch of Palm Springs inspiration with a design language that not only softens the bulk of a three-storey façade, but also carries a consistent tone throughout the project. Round skylights and porthole windows, another reference to the coastal location, influence the way that sunlight engages with the building, as do brick screens on the terrace.
South Coogee House by Partridge Daniels exhibits a strong modernist aesthetic fitting of its beachside surrounds.
Inside, the palette of materials and colours evokes a feeling of simplicity. The exterior is highly textured, offsetting the simple form of the building, so the neutrality of the interior is an important contrast. Rooms are provided warmth through the use of timber (oak and teak throughout) against white walls, whilst natural stone and a raw concrete kitchen bench add are both timeless and robust. Throughout the bathrooms, terrazzo tiling was selected to reinforce the modernist aesthetic, with brass detailing that will patina as the building is used and lived in.
The lower ground floor houses the most functional sections of the house: the garage, laundry, cellar and storeroom are all located on this level. The main entry is on the ground floor, which opens to the living and dining spaces, and offers ocean views courtesy of the brick-screened terrace. A generously planned open staircase then leads to the top level, responsible for housing the bedrooms, and again offering enviable oceanside views.
Crafting an understated, elegant home befitting of its coastal surroundings, South Coogee House combines the optimism of Palm Springs modernism with the practicality to respond to the vigour of daily life.
