Sitting roughly 20 kilometres from the city of Devonport, Shearwater has gained significant momentum as a Tasmanian summer holiday destination in recent years, with its pristine beaches and Narawntapu National Park just a short paddle across the port. Shearwater House, sitting in prime position on Shearwater Esplanade, was designed to take full advantage of this special location.

Beginning with a podium-like form, Shearwater House subtly peaks above the sand dunes and low-line shrubbery.  To help soften the elevated silhouette, mirrored curves were introduced within the roof line and ground floor brickwork.

Upstairs, priority is given to the beach view, with expansive living areas and floor to ceiling windows to the north and east. Throughout the interior an array of native timbers provide further context within the surrounding shack environment. Fine interior joinery is offset by a weathered timber facade, creating an interesting transition between the warm inside spaces and the unpredictable coastal elements.

Below, the tiered outdoor pool and entertainment area reflects the shades and materials used in the balcony above, with timber decking intended to grey to the hue of Freers Beach driftwood. Finally, a series of new trees aim to further occupy the landscape, led by the courtyard centrepiece, set to grow through and beyond the curved roof cavity.

Material Used:

1. Cedar Sales – Cladding - Decada Channel Clad CLSSC 120x26 KBS

2. Cemintel – Cladding - Edge Cladding

3. Lunawood – Decking - THERMOWOOD' Thermally Modified Classic Decking 26x118

4. Bowral Bricks – Exterior Bricks - Chillingham White dry-pressed bricks 230x110x76