Ziggy’s Villas by Harley Graham Architects

Harley Graham Architects has skilfully crafted two new villas near Byron Bay, maximising a modest suburban block while enhancing the community’s relaxed coastal character.

The design of Ziggy’s Villas expertly addresses the challenge of fitting two spacious three-bedroom homes on a standard plot without compromising the laid-back charm of Suffolk Park – a quaint suburb in the Byron Shire of the Northern Rivers region in New South Wales. By effectively doubling the density, the project offers a nuanced approach to suburban development, balancing private living with community integration.

The interior spaces of the villas are thoughtfully arranged to promote a seamless flow between indoor and outdoor living.

Each villa is deliberately designed to stand alone with its own garden, pool and garage, presenting as distinct residences from the street despite their shared plot. Yet they share a cohesive aesthetic that complements the local environment. The separation between the villas is subtly enforced by a textured red brick fence that circles the property, providing privacy while blending naturally with the verdant landscape. Above this, hit-and-miss brick screens add a layer of texture and permeability, enhancing the facade while inviting light and air without sacrificing seclusion.

The interior spaces of the villas are thoughtfully arranged to promote a seamless flow between indoor and outdoor living. The architectural strategy includes high ceilings in the dining areas to amplify a sense of openness, while the cosy configurations of the kitchens and living rooms create comforting retreats. The placement of high windows strategically captures sunlight throughout the day, ensuring privacy and a continuous connection with the outdoor environment.

Material choice plays a crucial role in rooting the villas in their coastal context. The use of local stone, timber and specially treated bricks ensure durability and also provides a tactile quality that complements the natural setting. These materials were selected not only for their aesthetic qualities but also for their availability and sustainability, reflecting a mindful approach to construction during local resource shortages.

The project also showcases a unique partnership model in its execution. Faced with a labour and material shortage, the architects and builders entered a joint venture, allowing for creative solutions in construction techniques and material use that kept the project viable and within budget.

Material choice plays a crucial role in rooting the villas in their coastal context.

Each villa is deliberately designed to stand alone with its own garden, pool and garage, presenting as distinct residences from the street despite their shared plot.

Ziggy’s Villas exemplifies how thoughtful design can contribute to community densification without overwhelming the local character. Harley Graham Architects has delivered a robust pair of dwellings that respects the context and offers a sustainable model for future developments in similar settings.

Architecture by Harley Graham Architects. Build by Stehnbuild. Landscape design by Capo Landscapes.