Larus Marinus is a multigenerational family retreat nestled in the valley of the easternmost seaside town of Wategos Beach. Perched lightly on a steeply contoured site, this house looks out over the Pacific Ocean. The project is part of a multigenerational setting where a mother and her daughter’s family seek to build a new way of living with the flexibility of two residences.
The east and west orientations take advantage of the north while capturing views of the Pacific Ocean, glimpses of the Julian rocks and the Wollumbin range. The south elevation of the house is bordered by a green corridor with natural sewers providing a sense of protection within the tree canopy which contrasts with the northern aspect.
Architects considered the beautiful setting and open nature due to its proximity to the sea, in short it integrates a material ceiling that is strong and capable of handling the salty north. Embracing the steep contours of the site, the suspended concrete slab defines the floor slab with a dark external palette a combination of long stripe cladding and recycled iron skin. These materials were chosen for their durability requiring minimal maintenance to meet client directives.
photography: Andy Macpherson
architect: Harley Graham Architects
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