Located in a coastal setting on the Mornington Peninsula, a series of gcabled pavilions are clustered around the original circa 1919 cottage and bunkhouse. The brief is to balance the needs of a shared family weekend retreat while respecting the scale and charm of the original modest coastal residence.

A two-storey timber clad addition sits behind the original heritage cottage connected via a glazed atrium space that serves as an entry to the house. A new translucent gabled laundry and play space pavilion frames an entry pathway and reflects the spirit of the Mornington Peninsula vernacular beach box.

The house has been designed to accommodate and include the higher support needs of a family member with limited mobility. Universal design principles have been applied to all components and generous circulation, ramps and the inclusion of two lifts ensure that all areas are wheelchair accessible. Accessible design was considered at the project’s inception and is both integrated and celebrated.

Outdoor courtyards, conversation and fire-pit encourage social engagement. Landscaped spaces are connected via pathways to evoke a sense of camping and the summer beach shack.