The Loft

The Home Base blog

Bold Statement

This Port Coogee property is designed to shine

10.08.2017

When City Beach Builders’ Brian Connor set about designing and building this spectacular Port Coogee home, his focus was to create a low-maintenance abode that capitalised on its north-facing private canal access and panoramic views of the Indian Ocean.

“As this was a design and build project for City Beach Builders, it was exciting to see the design become a reality and to work with the client to create something they will cherish for years to come,” Brian says.

The bold use of reds in finishes both internally and externally combined with clever use of angles and a simple floor plan make the home a standout.

A black blade wall running from street front into the centre of the home adds wow factor.

“A lot of care was taken when selecting the right finishes so they worked in with the brief to keep the home easy maintenance,” Brian says.

“A large undercroft basement allows for the storage of boats, kayaks and surfboards and other items required to appreciate and interact with the local coastal area.”

The owners say clean, uncluttered spaces and the large glazed outlook to the pool, alfresco area and canal are among their favourite features.

In the kitchen, the clever use of a window splashback allows the space to be filled with natural light and helps to create the illusion of a bigger, wider space.

Dark timber warms the light-filled area and a magnetic glass board allows the family to keep track of upcoming events.

The red theme is continued in the bathroom and this time the walls are treated with plenty of colour and they’re anchored with natural stone floors which bring warmth and texture to the spaces.

Brian says big mirrors help to make the areas feel spacious.

The home is environmentally friendly and uses low-E glass throughout to keep heat transference to a minimum.

“The northern light also allows the floors to absorb heat in the winter,” he says. “The north-south direction of the block allows the front windows and door to be opened to allow the sea breeze to filter through the house, keeping it naturally cool without the use of air-conditioning.”

For the exterior, Brian chose Alucobond cladding for a smooth finish to contrast against the render and for ease of maintenance.

“Boundary walls were rough textured to contrast against the smooth finishes and add interest,” he says.

Landscaping was kept to a minimum to keep the property waterwise.