Ngarrindjeri people of Ngarrindjeri Yarluwar-Ruwe
South Australia
Dunes House is a retreat shaped by connection—between family, place, and country. Nestled within the shifting dunes of Middleton on Ngarrindjeri land, the home embraces the coastal landscape, fostering a deep sense of stillness and belonging.
A refined interpretation of the Australian beach house, its gabled form draws inspiration from the client’s brother’s nearby cedar-clad home, balancing contemporary craftsmanship with a nostalgic coastal vernacular. A robust masonry base grounds the home, while the lighter upper level opens to sweeping ocean and dune views, balancing shelter and exposure.
Designed for slow, intentional living, the home’s expansive communal spaces encourage shared experiences, while cocooning private zones offer moments of retreat. Sustainability is embedded in its fabric, with solar power, battery storage, and rainwater harvesting ensuring resilience with minimal impact. Dunes House is a place of quiet contemplation—a sanctuary where architecture and landscape work in harmony to shape lasting memories.
Dunes House is a thoughtfully resolved coastal retreat that reimagines the traditional Australian beach house with restraint and sensitivity. Materials and form sit comfortably within the dunes, and the home preserves the natural topography, engaging in a quiet dialogue with its surroundings.
Layered, intimate spaces shaped by values of connection, retreat, and adaptability balance privacy and openness. Its high-level of program resolution supports generational living, with the parents’ quarters enjoying dune and light-filled outlooks above, whilst children and guests are accommodated below, balancing interaction and autonomy. Flexibility is well-considered with both protected outdoor spaces that offer respite from coastal conditions, and unprotected spaces for full engagement when optimal.
Durable, tactile, solid materials ground the home, whilst timber panelling above is expressive and functional, delivering longevity – all naturally weathering with the elements. Timber fixings and junctions were clearly treated with the care and precision of furniture. A sustainable and comfortable year-round home, balancing orientation, controlled solar gains and cross-ventilation, with the slow-combustion heater and electrification.
By resisting prevailing trends and instead engaging in a respectful architectural response to place, Dunes House contributes meaningfully to the coastal vernacular – a refined yet unpretentious model for enduring, respectful, and sustainable seaside living.
“WBL’s remarkable talent and vision are evident through in the design of our house, which seamlessly integrates with nature. By attentively listening to our brief, they honoured the natural surroundings, crafting a home that nourishes our souls and allows us to immerse ourselves in the beauty of our environment. This family sanctuary with thoughtfully crafted spaces for everyone showcases nature’s seasonally changing moods. The unique design and exceptional craftsmanship exceeded our expectations, resulting in a true masterpiece. Living here brings us joy, and we are grateful for WBL’s outstanding work.”
David Burton, Design Architect
Sophia Leopardi, Director/Project Interior Designer
Harriet Craig, Project Architect
Max Parker, Project Architect
Emma Aronsten, Project Architect Interior Designer
Sarah Petherick, Project Architect Interior Designer
Lee Grey Landscape Design, Landscape Consultant
Topline Furniture, Joiner
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.
