New South Wales
Bronte house is a calm, quiet, private oasis in this popular and densely populated area. There is a strong relationship with the epicness of the coastal landscape and the specialness of the natural environment. The house is monolithic and elemental, as if it were carved from a solid block of brickwork by sun, wind and time. At the same time, it is neighbourly, following the subdivision pattern, and sliced off in plan and section to preserve sun and privacy to South-facing rear gardens. It is a celebration of light – direct light, shadows, reflected light and patterns. Light bouncing off the pool David Hockneys up the reflector wall. Light bouncing off the neighbours red tile roof refracts like stained glass through the brick screened windows. The close attention paid to resolved detailing belies the hose-out casualness of beachside living.
We are a busy, adult family and this beach side home is perfect for our lifestyle.
The site is steep with neighbours in close proximity.We wanted easy to clean, easy to maintain and with typical “Hannah Tribe” features – clean cut, seamless, airflow, light filled spaces.
The design is nothing short of what we set out to do: we have a home that is filled with light, high ceilings – a very elemental structure, concrete, brick, terrazzo and spotted gum – cool in summer, spacious and private. The detail makes it look and feel seamless and calm.
The Australian Institute of Architects acknowledges First Nations peoples as the Traditional Custodians of the lands, waters, and skies of the continent now called Australia.
We express our gratitude to their Elders and Knowledge Holders whose wisdom, actions and knowledge have kept culture alive.
We recognise First Nations peoples as the first architects and builders. We appreciate their continuing work on Country from pre-invasion times to contemporary First Nations architects, and respect their rights to continue to care for Country.
