We take a closer look at eight Australian and international homes designed for retreating by the water.
Homes by the water – an ever-changing panorama – are where we look to find a deeper connection with nature. But, equally, coastal homes require sensitivity to their environment, so elements including salt, sand and wind require careful consideration when selecting materials and finishes. We explore the design decisions behind a selection of kitchens built by the water, be they a river or the sea – and why endurance of materials and is key to ensure their durability.
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John Irving Architects specified Fisher & Paykel appliances for their seamless integration. The only visible appliance in the kitchen is the . A mirrored splashback softly reflects the ocean vista behind.
The Dart by John Irving Architects
Designed by , is a family holiday home set on rural farmland north of Auckland, New Zealand. Triangular in form, the remote sanctuary enjoys uninterrupted ocean views on one side and farmland on the other. Full height glazed windows accentuate its scenic outlook while maintaining solitude and sanctuary. Water views are further accentuated through the mirrored splashback in the kitchen, while vertical timber cabinetry references the cedar-clad exterior outside. True to their signature design philosophy, John Irving Architects selected appliances that could be integrated for a minimal finish. The is the only visible appliance within the kitchen space. All other appliances, including the , freestanding and , are neatly housed behind timber joinery.
Bellows House by Architects EAT
In the , Melbourne-based firm created a family hideaway with experimental materials and textures. Within the home, two inverted pyramid-shaped concrete lightwells push the boundaries of conventional design. Mimicking the antique ‘Bellows camera’ the lightwells provide all-day illumination. This light, combined with expansive doorways, allows the home to connect deeply with its landscape. Architects EAT leant on natural materials within the kitchen, including timber, , and concrete, to continue the connection of place. Stepped edges along the sides of the island bench, tap into the unique pyramid contours.
The island bench edging delicately reflects the colossal inverted-pyramid lightwells within the home.
This kitchen features a brass benchtop and splashback paired with custom timber cabinetry. The provides flexibility, while an offers practicality for couples. An and completes the contemporary style.
Denison Rivulet Cabins by Taylor and Hinds Architects
Located in Tasmania, just north of Bicheno, sit three geometric cabins to accommodate holidaying couples. Designed by , the cabins are as practical as they are refined, housing surprisingly understated interiors. Each cabin’s kitchen space, while unique, is sympathetic to its environment. Hard-wearing timber cabinetry is paired with durable brass or copper benchtops and splashbacks – complemented with matching tapware. To maintain a refined aesthetic, Taylor and Hinds specified the , as well as the . An is ideal to meet the needs of small groups. At the same time, a provides flexibility without sacrificing functionality.
Seaside Abode by Norm Architects
, just an hour from Copenhagen, reimagined an existing coastal cottage into a zen retreat. Panoramic floor-to-ceiling views showcase the seaside outlook while also bathing the home in natural light. An earthy palette drenches the interiors, blending nordic cottage style with subtle Japanese wabi-sabi elements. Norm Architect’s pared-back approach to the kitchen layout includes a natural stone island benchtop and rich timber cabinetry to allow the ocean views to remain the focal point. All kitchen are integrated and tucked away out of sight to maintain the minimalist design aesthetic.
The Danish-inspired island bench with dark timber cabinetry contrasts with Japanese touches including the .
Patio House by OOAK Architects
To savour the ever-changing panoramas from Karpathos Island, Greece, was designed as a protected sanctuary for a French-Swedish couple. Imagined by , Patio House showcases the dramatic ocean vista across the Agean sea. OOAK favoured natural and robust materiality, including concrete, stone and timber, to withstand its surrounding windy and rugged landscape. As a result, the kitchen is practical and pared back. Delicate olive green timber cabinetry combines with marble benchtops. To complete the minimalist aesthetic, OOAK specifies a gooseneck tap, under-mount sink and .
Clovelly Apartment by James Garvan
With a modest 62 square metre footprint, what may lack in size, is compensated with highly sought-after Sydney water views. A project close to his heart, James Garvan transforms his own run-down, single-bedroom apartment into a soothing abode for his growing family. In the light-filled kitchen, a contemporary palette including limed plywood joinery allows the ocean backdrop to take centre stage. To maximise storage, the kitchen features overhead cabinetry and shelves while also integrating wherever possible. Subtle raw brass fittings and marble benchtops create a refined form, while oak underfoot adds warmth.
Kitchen includes timber flooring underfoot and of the . A rests on the working bench, beneath the . The sits next to soft grey cabinetry. An is tucked away within the island bench.
The Arbour by Shaun Lockyer Architects
Brisbane-based architecture firm create a contemporary aesthetic inside a Byron Bay home. Sean Lockyer Architects specified a floating island bench to create ‘ease of flow’ in and around the kitchen. including an , and are specified for a seamless yet functional finish. Larger appliances, including the and , are the only on display. Timber engineered flooring underfoot and wooden bar stools create warmth, contrasting with the curved marble island bench and kit kat tile detailing.
Villa Mandra by K-Studio
On Mykonos, Greece, designed a perched atop a ridge overlooking the Aegean sea. Clad with raw stone and timber, the home allows the sparkling water views and the nightly sunsets over the neighbouring island of Delos to take complete focus. Two white-washed buildings are connected via a communal kitchen and living space, adjoining a courtyard that overlooks the pool and gardens beneath. A palette of earthy tones reflects the building’s exterior, where timber and muted clays contrast with modern fixtures and furniture. The communal kitchen features timber-lined ceilings, wooden cabinetry and complementary stone benchtops. At the same time, an allow the kitchen to integrate seamlessly with the living zone and adjacent courtyard.
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