Towering 40 metres above the beach, The Pole House in Fairhaven, Victoria has received an F2 Architecture makeover which demonstrates how contemporary materials can advance an Australian landmark.  

The house has been a landmark of the great Ocean Road for over 36 years, but was demolished early last year to make way for a new steel and glass structure.

The brief was to open the place up and maximise the southern view throughout the house. Project Architect, Franco Fiorentini from F2 Architecture wanted to take full advantage of the ocean views, making them visible throughout the home

The house sits on a 64sqm, 700mm thick floor plate which has been strategically engineered to ensure complete safety and comfort. The square slab tapers towards the edge and is balanced on a 15 metre high column.

The new building features revamped interiors with floor-to-ceiling retracting windows from Architectural Window Systems which provide sweeping views from Aireys Inlet to Lorne. The glass used is Double Glazed Low-E Glass from Viridian and the aluminium systems were ThermalHearts from AWS.

The system was chosen to ensure protection from the extremely cold winter temperatures coming off Bass Straight, as well as the sun’s heat piercing through the home throughout summer.

The supporting steel pole continues up through the centre of the home and is concealed by a feature wall clad with warm burnt ash timber.

Outside, the long entrance walkway has been renovated with Viridian Glass balustrades fabricated by Bradford Glass & Aluminium.

The house is available for renting and holiday stays. Images: Highsnobiety