Project: Bendalong Beach House
Architecture: Madeleine Blanchfield Architects
Team: Madeleine Blanchfield, Ashleigh Edinburg
Location: Bendalong Beach, Australia
Year: 2020
Photo Credits: Robert Walsh
A Casual Beachside Sanctuary
Bendalong Beach House, designed by Madeleine Blanchfield Architects, is a serene coastal retreat for a retired couple on the South Coast of Australia. Designed to blend into its laid-back surroundings, the house embraces the simplicity and modesty of local beach homes, many of which were owner-built over the years. It serves as both a private haven for the couple and a welcoming space for visiting family and friends.
Design Concept: Connection to Nature
The design prioritizes the connection to the natural environment, with kangaroos frequently seen inhabiting the surrounding garden. The single-level living pavilion, positioned at the street front, reflects the unpretentious character of traditional beach houses, seamlessly integrating with the landscape. The structural system of the house is exposed, emphasizing an honest and raw architectural style. Large operable screens allow the home to open up completely, almost disappearing into the surroundings, evoking a camping-like experience and fostering a strong sense of openness and community.
Adaptability and Bushfire Response
In addition to its serene design, Bendalong Beach House addresses practical concerns. The house is located in a bushfire-rated area, and recent photographs show the extent of bushfire damage to the surrounding landscape. Despite this challenge, the house remains resilient, with features such as operable screens providing both privacy control and protection from external elements.
Conclusion: A Thoughtful Blend of Design and Functionality
Bendalong Beach House stands as a thoughtful blend of design, functionality, and environmental awareness. Madeleine Blanchfield Architects have crafted a home that respects the simplicity of its surroundings while offering a versatile and durable space that can adapt to the changing needs of the homeowners and the natural world around them. The result is a casual yet sophisticated beach house that harmoniously coexists with its coastal environment.
