Dawesville House in WA by Tim Wright Architect.

Nestled between the Indian Ocean and Peel inlet, Dawesville House by Tim Wright Architects sits on a coastal site with views of the sand dune and direct access to the beach. Just an hour drive south of Perth, encompassed by coastal and estuary scenery, panoramic views were emphasised to the West, with no visual obstructions between the home and the ocean.

Apart from being a guide, the entrance of the home and stairs visually affixes the two floors together. Monolithic, like its exterior volume, the stairs draw visitors upstairs and contrasts with the thin balustrade, plants and earthy pebbles below. The upper level of Dawesville House accommodates the main living area, kitchen and master bedroom suite with children’s bedrooms on the lower levels. Having an open plan ensures that the family can congregate to enjoy a nice meal or a night in, while also providing enough space to entertain family and friends.

Injecting warmth into an otherwise minimalistic material palette and further strengthening a connection to the natural surroundings, timber acoustic panels sit above the living space. Here, floor-to-ceiling sliding doors and windows combine the outdoor and indoor areas, making them seamlessly connect, taking advantage of the site, Perth’s warm climate and the cooling sea breeze.

Although Dawesville House may be vulnerable to the afternoon sun and vicious winter storms, sun control blinds and exterior materials such as concrete and masonry were utilised to increase durability and minimise maintenance. In saying that, the views can still be enjoyed through the blinds during the afternoon as they are organised in a weave.

A sense of sanctuary is felt from the openness of the interior and the solid concrete structure of the home from the street level. Despite being briefed to be a holiday home, the clients live in Dawesville House full time. Designed for flexibility and the future, Dawesville House is a triumph for Tim Wright Architects and also an entry in the 2021 Australian Institute of Architects WA Architecture Awards.

Related: East Fremantle House by Nic Brunsdon.

[Photography by Jack Lovel.]