Headland House

Project Details

Project Description

FROM THE ARCHITECTS:

This new home designed by Atelier Andy Carson is a sanctuary from its harsh surrounds, perched on a sprawling coastal site at Werri Beach, New South Wales. Green pastures and paddocks running dairy cows line this 150-acre property on one side, rugged coastal cliffs and ocean on the other.

The four bedroom, four-and-a-half-bathroom main home is connected by three pavilions, wrapped around a protected courtyard.

The architects’ design is inspired by the spectacular landscape. The 180-degree views and breathtaking backdrop called for a respectful celebration of the location. Instead of providing the same view throughout the house, the design creates considered framed glimpses of what lies outside. Meanwhile, a storm-viewing room pays tribute to the drama of extreme weather fronts creeping up from the ocean.

The clients, Beau Neilson and her husband, Jeffrey Simpson, set the brief based on a clear understanding of how they live. No strangers to the design scene (Beau is daughter of art patron Judith Neilson and Kerr Neilson), the couple desired an elegant, comfortable residence for all conditions. Their brief also called for a modest two-bedroom guest house on the site to cater to visitors and extended family.

The guest house is inspired by a farm shed, with a plan that’s charmingly simple yet highly considered in its detail. Two verandahs envelope the home on the north and south, providing opportunities to chase the sun or seek refuge from harsh winds. Large copper operable louvres on the western façade can be adjusted to any angle, or fully open to light and views. Visitors are encouraged to slow down from arrival – the home is accessed only by foot.

The project’s sustainability features include utilising only tank water (harvested from the roof) and on-site sewage treatment.

Atelier Andy Carson has created a robust family home that actively explores the relationship between building and landscape.