Set along the exposed edge of Victoria’s Surf Coast, this coastal residence responds directly to its environment, wind, sun, salt and all.

Designed collaboratively by DOOD Studio and LTD Architecture, the project is shaped as much by restraint as by ambition, favouring durability, simplicity and a close reading of the site.

In this interview, Andrew Stapleton from DOOD Studio discusses the thinking behind the home’s pared-back form, the challenges of building in such a demanding location, and how collaboration and material choice helped anchor the house quietly into the landscape.

Architecture & Design: Can you describe the initial vision for this project and how it evolved over time?

DOOD Studio: The design is conceived as a simple, singular form that has been chamfered and carved to create a range of interior and exterior spaces. It's been given a hard shell of Corten pre-painted steel in response to the exposed and often harsh location.

The interior is intended to be softer and warmer but also keeps durability in mind. The profile of the house is set low and long against the hillside when viewed from the beach and Great Ocean Road in an effort to remain unobtrusive and respectful of its surroundings.

What were the biggest challenges you faced during the design and construction phases, and how did you overcome them?

The house is right on the great ocean road in Victoria’s Surf Coast, so it is subject to extreme wind, sound, salt exposure and sun. It is also on a steep hill. So there were several considerations when designing and constructing this home.

Views along the cost were amazing, but extreme at times, so sheltered outdoor spaces were as important as the viewing deck. Northern facing courtyards provide sheltered access to the sun in the cooler times.

How did you ensure that the project met the client’s needs and expectations?

Collaboration between DOOD, LTD Architecture and the client was imperative.

Were there any unique or innovative techniques or materials used in this project?

Given the location, the materials had to be robust, but there was also consideration into elements that would age in place. So a mix of timbers, stones and prefinished metal (Unicote) allow the project to remain clean, but also settle in place as the timber silvers into the landscape.

Structure is a mix of suspended concrete, blockwork and timber/steel frame. The cladding is Unicote Lux Corten, spotted gum and locally sourced sandstone.

How does this project fit into your broader portfolio and design philosophy?

We try to keep our projects simple in form and ideas. No frills. Response to site is always the first driver. Sun, views, wind, experience at different times of day and year shape the form. Then we overlay the brief and client needs to shape a space.

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