Torquay Beach House

Torquay Beach House
Torquay, Bellarine Peninsula

Residential - Completed

Located in the surf town of Torquay on Victoria’s picturesque Great Ocean Road, topography, materiality and orientation played a defining role in the new build of this 280 sqm home. In response to the harsh climate that vacillates between wild wind, relentless rain and scorching summers, the architectural response was to deploy materials that were low maintenance and robust. Brick, charred timber battens and polished concrete were chosen for their natural beauty and ability to withstand extreme weather conditions.

With both boundaries sitting at 90 degrees, the site specific footprint reads in a fan-like profile with breathtaking views overlooking a protected nature reserve. Although set within a housing estate, the vistas are uninterrupted, facing north to enjoy the breadth of open wetlands, greenery and sand dunes beyond. Inside, a series of clever glass partitions and picture windows frame the flawless landscape and embrace the light.

Designed as a permanent home for a retired couple, the brief was for a fully operational day-to-day ground floor but with extra space on the first floor to accommodate visiting family. So as not to disturb the main space, a flight of stairs was added near the front entryway leading to a self-contained level with its own energy-efficient heating and cooling system that can be used independently from the floor below.