Ritchie Street, Port Fairy

Set on the back of the primary dune, this house replaced an old and much loved 1950s fibro-cement beach house.  In contrast to the heavy materials and literal seaside references that dominate recent developments in this area, the new house deliberately evokes the lightweight nature and simple, geometric forms that typified beach houses of the 1950s era. 

 

The surrounding context is both beach-front and suburban.  As a result, the design is driven by opposing needs: to create a private dwelling while also embracing views of the landscape. The central courtyard and adjacent stair serve to reinforce the separation of public and private spaces within the house, as well as the division of the guest wing from the master bedroom suite.  A significant feature of the architecture is its passive thermal performance.  Views to the east and west are captured without compromising thermal efficiency through the use of operable louvres on both these facades.