The Clubhouse
Designed by NTF Architecture, The Clubhouse is a bold, multi-level contemporary residence set on a golf course near a lake, featuring striking gabled forms, integrated landscaping and timeless materials.
Positioned within Sanctuary Lakes Resort in Victoria, and with a lake beyond, The Clubhouse presents a distinctive yet refined architectural statement. Its gabled form, textured materials and integrated landscaping establish a strong connection to the surrounds. “We wanted the house to feel both contemporary and deeply connected to its setting,” says George Fortey, director at NTF Architecture.
More than just a response to its setting, the design was shaped through an evolving conversation with the clients. “They didn’t have an overly onerous or long brief – just a simple series of spaces they needed,” says Fortey. “It was an evolving journey for them because they weren’t entirely sure what was possible. That gave us the opportunity to present ideas, have discussions and refine the design together.”
The Clubhouse is a contemporary reinterpretation of the archetypal hipped and gabled roof form, responding to its estate context while making a striking statement. “The pitched roofs were a response to the surrounding built environment,” says Fortey. “But the 45-degree pitch was our way of pushing it forward, making it bolder in a restrained way.” Every detail was considered to strip the form back to its essentials. “We integrated box gutters, eliminating eaves, gutters and exposed downpipes. When you don’t have all those things, it takes it back to a very pure silhouette, and it becomes about the textural details of the roof material and brickwork.”
Spanning three levels, the home incorporates a semi-basement – an uncommon addition for the area – originally designed as a two-car garage but expanded to accommodate six cars, a workshop, cinema, sauna, laundry, mud room and extensive storage. The main level features an open-plan kitchen, dining and living area, with the main suite set in a separate pavilion. Upstairs, the children’s wing comprises three identical rooms, a study lined in black timber and a northfacing rumpus room.
Grey-toned brickwork, charred timber and travertine create a unified expression, extending seamlessly from exterior to interior. “The brick texture plays a key role in breaking up the facade,” says Tess McKinlay, interior design associate at NTF Architecture. “Because it’s not a flat surface, the way light and shadow move across it prevents the house from feeling like one large expanse.” Inside, the same brickwork is carried through key areas, including the entry, living and dining zone. The consistent use of these materials throughout The Clubhouse ensures cohesion across spaces, avoiding any feeling of disjointedness despite their varied functions.
The design strikes a masterful balance between grand, open spaces and intimate retreats. Expansive living areas feature soaring gabled ceilings that enhance the sense of openness and bring in light, while more intimate zones are wrapped in dark timber finishes, fostering a sense of retreat. “Without visual cues like the shelving unit, the risk is that it could start to feel barn-like. Features like this help maintain a sense of connection while bringing in a level of intimacy,” says Fortey. This careful zoning ensures a natural flow between rooms while maintaining distinct atmospheres, all tied together by the reinforced material palette. Layered textures, furniture and carefully curated objects introduce warmth and character, ensuring The Clubhouse feels inviting while maintaining its architectural clarity.
Beyond architecture and interiors, the landscape design by Nathan Burkett Landscape Architecture strengthens the dwelling’s connection to its surroundings, balancing privacy with openness. Rather than relying on perimeter planting, layered and immersive gardens integrate seamlessly with the architecture. Structured planters define key areas, while loose, flowing greenery separates the pool, outdoor entertaining zone and tennis court. A 50-year-old olive tree anchors the courtyard as a symbolic feature and was envisioned from the outset. “The idea was that the tree would grow old alongside the family, and the older and gnarlier it gets, the better,” says Fortey. The outdoor spaces are designed for both relaxation and entertaining, with an infinityedge pool, a central raised planter, an outdoor fireplace and a generous alfresco area under an operable roof. “You step outside and have this direct, uninterrupted view of the pool,” says McKinlay. “The way that the landscape kind of borders the pool and is so integrated together is a really special moment.”
Sustainability is embedded in every aspect of the design, with a core focus on responsiveness to the site and climate. Passive solar principles, optimal orientation and high-performance glazing underpin the home’s 7-star energy rating, reducing reliance on mechanical heating and cooling. Roof-integrated solar tiles generate 17 kilowatts of power, supported by a Tesla Powerwall for energy storage, all while maintaining a clean aesthetic. Extensive water harvesting supports a native landscape that enhances biodiversity, further grounding the home in its environment.
NTF Architecture’s full-service approach extended beyond design and documentation to include furniture and art procurement and styling, “all the way down to cutlery, soaps and linen”, ensuring The Clubhouse was complete the moment the clients arrived. “On the day they moved in, they literally just arrived in their cars and everything was done,” recalls Fortey. “Being able to say, ‘Everything, down to all the little details, was chosen with you in mind’ made it such a great experience.” With its striking form, refined materiality and immersive landscaping, The Clubhouse is a residence designed for longevity – one that balances bold contemporary expression with a connection to its natural surroundings.
Architecture and interior design by NTF Architecture. Build by Long Contracting. Landscape design by Nathan Burkett Landscape Architecture. Lighting design by Glowing Structures. Lighting by Articolo Studios, Est Lighting, Gabriel Scott and Living Edge. Stone paving by Eco Outdoor. Timber veneer by Elton Group. Artwork from Bluethumb, Gallerysmith and Studio Gallery.
