A Family’s Seaside Cottage Renovation Makes Room for New Memories
A rear extension inspired by the Victoria coast’s pastoral setting gives the owners plenty of space for generations to come.
Project Details:
Location: Victoria, Australia
Architect: Beauty Bloody Bonza / @beautybloodybonza
Builder/General Contractor: Herbert Brother Constructions
Footprint: 1,400 square feet
Photography: Jeremy Wright / @jeremywrightphotography
From the Architect: "Located in a small town on Victoria’s east coast, the project is a renovation of a modest beach cottage that has stayed within the family for generations. Abutting a costal reserve, the property has uninterrupted views of the Snowy River and surrounding wetlands.In keeping with the original character, the house was to be understated, a low-maintenance space that could be enjoyed by everyone. While the original cottage remains with updates throughout, we build a continuation of its story through the extension and new structure. The region’s pastoral heritage was a key influence, with the architecture taking cues from the slatted barns that dot the landscape on the road into town."
The small coastal town in regional Victoria has a distinct seaside character bound by farmland.
Photo by Jeremy Wright
The original entrance into the cottage.
Photo by Jeremy Wright
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The interior focuses on the expansive views of the landscape, capturing the native trees and lush surrounds.
Photo by Jeremy Wright
In keeping with the original character of the cottage the house was to be understated—a low maintenance home that could be enjoyed by everyone.
Photo by Jeremy Wright
The lower ceiling of the breezeway gives way to the voluminous vaulted ceiling and expansive views.
Photo by Jeremy Wright
The exposed timber ceiling brings texture to the light walls in the main living space.
Photo by Jeremy Wright
Original fireplaces have been retained throughout.
Photo by Jeremy Wright
Abutting a costal reserve, the property has uninterrupted views of the Snowy River and surrounding wetlands.
Photo by Jeremy Wright
The light from the afternoon sun floods the living space.
Photo by Jeremy Wright
The palette draws moments of green and warm, tonal hues.
Photo by Jeremy Wright
Grooved paneling on the door faces and island subtly reference the slatted barns that inspired the architecture.
Photo by Jeremy Wright
The breezeway transitions into the main entertaining area with an open kitchen and dining space.
Photo by Jeremy Wright
Sage details on the joinery complement the home’s natural warmth, while black steel shelves and light fittings providing a sharp contrast.
Photo by Jeremy Wright
Custom details with recessed steel handles in sage accents.
Photo by Jeremy Wright
A neutral palette with moments of unexpected color to the kitchen joinery.
Photo by Jeremy Wright
The original cottage is dedicated to sleeping quarters, which includes a large bunk room for the extended family’s young children.
Photo by Jeremy Wright
The surrounding green landscape transitions into the interiors.
Photo by Jeremy Wright
The existing cottage is decorated with ornate furniture that has been lovingly owned and passed down.
Photo by Jeremy Wright
Dark terrazzo finishes in the wet areas create a cooling calmness.
Photo by Jeremy Wright
The wet areas open to views of native trees above allow the morning light to flood in.
Photo by Jeremy Wright
The breezeway and entrance act as a transitional moment linking old and new.
Photo by Jeremy Wright
Details on the façade take cues from the slatted barns in the area.
Photo by Jeremy Wright
This modest agricultural language was further developed through the use of raw timbers and galvanized steel.
Photo by Jeremy Wright
Charcoal cladding providing a distinct contrast.
Photo by Jeremy Wright
Dancing shadows of native trees on the exterior.
Photo by Jeremy Wright
Galvanized steel plate canopies add a subtle shimmer to the dark façade.
Photo by Jeremy Wright
The regions pastoral heritage was a key influence, with the architecture taking form from the historic slatted barns that dot the landscape along the road into town.
Photo by Jeremy Wright
Changing colors of the evening sun reflect off the facade.
Photo by Jeremy Wright
A place to be in each other’s company, the living area and rear deck feature sliding doors that frame views of the setting sun over the estuary.
Photo by Jeremy Wright
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