surf's up
A light-filled retreat that opens wide to the waves.
Our clients came to us with an exposed corner block above North Curl Curl beach with spectacular views, two street frontages, and a previously designed scheme that hadn’t been well matched to the site or the way they wanted to live. We reshaped the plan to suit the contours of the land, working around excavation in sandstone and refining the layout to maximise the outlook while keeping building costs in check. They wanted a coastal retreat that felt open, relaxed, and made entertaining effortless, while also being private and comfortable. Trusting the process, they handed us the brief and let us lead. Our job was to make the most of the land and make it feel like home.
We approached the design by paying close attention to what made this site special; the elevated position, the curve of the coastline, and the uninterrupted views across the beach and breaking waves. From the outset, we knew the views needed to be framed, not just glimpsed. Every space was designed to open outward, inviting the horizon in. A central stair draws light into the middle of the home while dividing living zones with a sense of flow. Materials were chosen to feel grounded and effortless: limestone underfoot, spotted gum for warmth, and layers of texture that let the backdrop do the talking. Whether you're in the kitchen, walking upstairs, or unwinding in the main bedroom, you're always aware of the ocean just beyond.
At the core of the design is the kitchen, a room that holds more than just meals. It opens onto the garden and out to the ocean. The clients shared: “The kitchen areas, which open to the backyard and also the views, allow us to fully experience our surroundings. The functionality, look and layout was a definite highlight.”
Reflecting on the experience, they said, “Craig & Wendy were so friendly from the outset and clear in explaining the process and how they could both work to help us get the project to completion.” and, “We look back with gratitude and fondness for everything they did for us.”
It’s a space built for slow mornings, big lunches, and wide-open evenings and it’s as practical as it is peaceful.
where
Sydney NSW
when
2020
what
house
370 sqm
freeform stone, rendered walls, limestone floors, spotted gum floors, adjustable metal louvres
who
Architect:
Builder:
Structural Engineers:
Stormwater Engineers:
Photography:
red blue architecture + design
wendy taylor, craig taylor, elise honeyman, catherine bailey-smith, teagan crean
MH Build
Northern Beaches Consulting
James Rose Consulting
Anne Stroud and red blue
