A Forever Home – House on the Bay by Lovell Burton

Overlooking Port Phillip Bay, House on the Bay by Lovell Burton is a home seamlessly integrated into its coastal environment. The owners, who have roots in the area, envisioned a dwelling that caters to their modern lifestyle and embraces its proximity to the beach.

Recognising the need for privacy in this prominently positioned abode, the architect prioritised addressing this concern without compromising the breathtaking views over the bay. As a solution, Lovell Burton partnered with Shade Factor to enclose the residence with a custom-designed exterior and also incorporated a secluded courtyard at the heart of the home, providing a space with uninterrupted, scenic views year-round.

Spanning three levels, House on the Bay welcomes the owners as they step through the first floor. This level not only houses the primary living areas, the main bedroom, ensuite and two studies but also presents an external courtyard upon entry. Here, both guests and owners are instantly immersed in the appreciation of the site’s surroundings and panoramic views. The ground floor accommodates the secondary bedrooms, a gym and parking, while the upper level contains a rooftop terrace designed as a garden space, providing different perspectives to savour the unique location.

Drawing inspiration from the concept of protection, the design of the home takes cues from the nearby Brighton sea baths. To enhance this influence, Lovell Burton utilises the surrounding beachscape as a guiding element for both the design and flow of the living spaces. In the pursuit of crafting a residence seamlessly integrated into its environment, the architect collaborated with Shade Factor to develop a bespoke facade. Motorised bi-fold screens, blending in with the coastal hues, have been applied to the exterior, providing the owners with the flexibility to open or close it. This feature not only harmonises with the beachside palette but also ensures privacy and offers expansive views when desired. The moving shade panels also diffuse natural light. Exploring the interplay of light and shadow on the facade, the architect has also incorporated a scallop design on the exterior. These scallops, appearing flat in the shade, create a unique visual effect when illuminated by the sun.

Drawing inspiration from the concept of protection, the design of the home takes cues from the nearby Brighton sea bars.

Lovell Burton opted for pared-back materials, with a focus on providing interior robustness through treated precast concrete. The exterior features fluted precast panels, while the interior showcases polished precast panels that have been sunblasted. Timber panels also contribute tactile and transparent elements to the design. Additionally, darker tones on the flooring and ceiling inside accentuate the views towards the bay and instil a sense of calm. Establishing a connection to the landscape, House on the Bay not only celebrates stunning views but also features a level of privacy and comfort that the owners can enjoy for years to come.