Este

“There was a ‘good news’ story that became a ‘bad news’ story, which then became a good news story again,” says Lockyer, laughing. When the clients and architect eventually reconvened, they were joined by builder Dan Boots of DB Build. “By the time we came back onto the project… it was an absolute joy. I think everything bad that had happened ultimately yielded a better project for it.”

The outcome consists of two distinct yet intertwined villas – North and South, where Bissiotis and Bilios respectively reside. “They’re two completely autonomous living conditions,” explains Lockyer, “but then on the roof terraces they can come together.” Though designed as individual residences, Este was also made to be shared, allowing people to book a stay and experience the property firsthand. Each side features its own pool, rainforest courtyard and picturesque views that sweep across Wategos Beach and the hinterland in the distance.

Inside, a similar narrative unfolds, with a design that is deeply sensory yet restrained. “Nearly every internal wall in the house is a textured marble plaster,” notes Lockyer. “You almost have a feeling of sand on the walls.” The palette of concrete, stone and timber – which Lockyer describes as the holy trinity of materials – is deliberately reductive, like a counterpoint to the natural wonders outside, with furnishings from Jardan and Mark Tuckey adding to the sense of warmth and tactility. “We created the quietest environment we could so that all of this beautiful, natural material effectively forms a backdrop to the landscape, to the art and the lived experience of people gathering, creating memories and telling stories.”

That art, too, plays a key role. Works by artists such as Simon Barlow, Martine Emdur and Miranda Russell anchor the dining rooms and stair landings, turning living spaces into eye-catching galleries. “It’s like someone’s holding your hand as you’re going through the staircase,” says Bilios. “There are parts where you feel like you’re actually in a gallery and you’re thinking, ‘Well, what’s around the next corner?’”

“When people come here,” says Bissiotis, “they’re going to feel like it’s a really cosy, beautiful, luxurious space. It’s very inviting – like you want to nestle into the couch, peer out to the sea or go up to the pool.” Este also offers hotel-level services – think private chefs, wellness sessions and curated itineraries – yet the design ensures luxury always feels grounded, never excessive.

This philosophy extends beyond the aesthetics, too, as Lockyer speaks of architecture as a kind of emotional landscape – a model for living well. “The act of building is such a beautifully optimistic and creative act,” he says. “When you go through a process like this, particularly one like Este, which had its challenges… that’s pretty meaningful. It’s more meaningful than the architecture itself. I think that the relationship creates the potential for the building and the building creates the relationship.” This sentiment feels apt for Este, a place where collaboration has become the foundation. “Without a good client, a good architect or a good builder, you don’t get a good job,” insists Lockyer. “Two out of three doesn’t get you there.”