Architect in Shoalhaven Heads

Behind a modest shopfront on Kiama’s main street, this studio reveals itself as a quietly composed interior — designed by and for the architecture team it houses.

Conceived as an insertion within an existing concrete shell, the fitout is designed to read as a standalone object rather than a lining to the space. Exposed base-building elements – concrete floor, soffit, and services – were left visible, with new work inserted carefully and minimally. The material palette favours Australian materials such as recycled hardwoods, and showcases the work of local trades and craftsmen.

Perched on a steep site above Kiama Harbour and Surf Beach, this residence forms one half of a carefully composed pair of coastal homes. Oriented to capture sweeping views through the treetops to the ocean beyond, the dwellings were designed in tandem following the subdivision of the original block. While the upper home was conceived as a private holiday retreat for the client, this lower residence was designed speculatively, to suit a range of future occupants. The plan is flexible and restrained, offering a considered response to site, aspect, and potential lifestyle. Balconies and courtyards are positioned to preserve privacy and view lines between the two homes while maintaining solar access and spatial generosity. A shared material palette of charred Australian Ironbark and recycled brick provides durability
against harsh coastal conditions and brings visual cohesion, anchoring both homes gently into the landscape. Internally, the lower level is grounded in robust materials, including burnished concrete floors, limewashed brick walls, and perforated steel. The upper floor is softened and refined with Victorian ash, terrazzo, and whitewashed plywood. As night falls, lighting illuminates the hit-and-miss brickwork at the entry, casting a quiet, lantern-like glow.

Located on an elevated position above Kiama Harbour and Surf beach, this project involved subdivision of the block and development of two houses - one as a holiday home for the client and the other to be sold upon completion. Working with the steep contours of the land, the client’s home is located at the top of the block, maximizing sweeping views of the coastline.

Ensuring privacy and amenity for the occupants of the new homes while maintaining the view lines from the neighbouring properties has been achieved through considered positioning of the buildings, balconies and courtyards. Charred Australian Ironbark and recycled brickwork cladding offer durability against the harsh conditions of the coastal environment and create visual coherency, with the two structures sitting modestly on the site.