It’s one thing to get a glimpse inside the Ocean House but it’s another thing entirely to stay at the seaside abode. Not so long ago the est team were lucky enough to take a trip down the infamous Great Ocean Road and immerse ourselves in all the calming retreat had to offer. Be it the second-to-none views, sumptuous interior details or the sound of waves crashing as you sleep, RMA’s Ocean House is a design refuge hard to beat when you’re looking to get away from it all.

Rising from the steep bushy outcrop above the pristine waters, we were quick to notice both the stellar site – and how well Ocean House tucks into its surrounds. This is obviously credit to RMA’s material palette of raw concrete and polished timber, repeated inside to feel as though a seamless extension of the forest behind. The chalk-rubbed Australian hardwood and polished concrete speak to the soft colours and textures of the landscape and as RMA points out, ‘conjure a unique wilderness experience’. Bespoke touches such as the suede leather handles in the kitchen made by a saddler add to the warm, natural feel throughout.

The unconventional – yet unassuming – exterior forms around a cylindrical tower, paving the way for the architectural ingenuity inside. The stucco finished curves shape both levels with fluidity, allowing you to move through each of the acoustically sealed floors with ease (and intrigue). To capture the beauty that unravels on both sides of the house, RMA chose for the first storey to be a glass pavilion, with floor to ceiling glass and nautical-inspired terraces letting you fully appreciate the tip-top spot.

Sinking into the Piero Lissoni sofa to soak up the sea views is a sure treat when it comes to getting comfy at Ocean House. Other notable design objects to grace its halls are the Andrew Lowe table and Patricia Urquiola bed, as well as the lower floor curation of furniture by De Padova, Jardan and Eero Saarinen – some of Rob Mills’ favourite designers. Here at est we were all quick to agree – it’s a mindful place to be, for the design inclined. Perhaps that’s because it’s a collaboration not just between architecture, interior design and nature, but between Rob Mills and his contemporaries.

So if you’re pining for a sea change, and dreaming of living in an architecturally designed home – Ocean House offers both – for a weekend, a week or a month. Where you can still your mind and recharge your Qi for the busy life that awaits your return, Ocean House has a big est team tick of approval.