Nestled along the pristine New South Wales coastline, the Macmasters Beach House by Polly Harbison Design stands as a tribute to the raw beauty of its surroundings. Designed with a deep respect for the local environment, this family retreat epitomizes the delicate balance between modern living and natural preservation. The house is more than just a residence; it’s an ode to the landscape that cradles it.
“The poetry of the project comes from the site,” explains Polly Harbison, the visionary behind the project. Positioned at the base of a small headland, the house occupies a unique location on a sweeping corner leading to the main beach. This prominent setting offers clear views of the local surf club, a vibrant hub for the beachside community. Harbison’s approach to the design was informed by the ecological significance of the site, which contains a precious pocket of native bushland. Every aspect of the project was crafted with an emphasis on preserving and enhancing this natural asset.
The design of Macmasters Beach House is a masterclass in subtlety and restraint. Harbison’s vision was to create a home that not only integrates seamlessly into the landscape but also enhances the site’s natural beauty. The building’s small footprint is anchored into the hillside, with a timber volume nestled within carefully sculpted terraces. This approach minimizes the visual impact of the house from all angles, ensuring that it blends effortlessly with the surrounding environment.
“The form and materials of the house respond directly to its setting,” says Harbison. The elongated design presents a narrow frontage to the street, while from the surf club, the house appears to blend into the headland. From the beach, only the upper floor, clad in timber, is visible, further emphasizing the home’s unobtrusive presence.
Harbison describes the design narrative of the Macmasters Beach House as one that “captures the essence of a beach house.” The simplicity and functionality of the design are intentional, aimed at enhancing the experience of living by the ocean. Carefully composed apertures, portals, and eaves frame views of the beach and bush, creating a seamless connection between the indoors and outdoors. The architecture fosters a sense of seclusion and retreat, allowing the family to fully immerse themselves in the tranquility of the coastal environment.
The landscaping of the Macmasters Beach House is a testament to the thoughtful collaboration between Polly Harbison Design and Michael Cooke Garden Design. Cooke’s planting strategy was guided by a desire to harmonize the architecture with the landscape. The result is a seamless integration of the home with its natural surroundings, where new plantings coexist with the carefully regenerated bushland.
The landscaping design also incorporates a variety of subtle yet impactful features. Climbing plants cover a privacy wall that conceals an external stairway, while a boundary wall along the street edge serves as a backdrop for a collection of banksia trees. These elements not only enhance the visual appeal of the property but also contribute to its sense of privacy and retreat.
Inside the Macmasters Beach House, the concept of “barefoot luxury” comes to life. Harbison’s design prioritizes comfort and functionality, with spaces arranged to accommodate a large family while maintaining a humble, unpretentious character. The interior is a continuation of the home’s exterior philosophy, with natural materials and finishes that reflect the surrounding landscape. The result is a serene, welcoming environment that feels intrinsically connected to the beachside location.
Macmasters Beach House by Polly Harbison Design is a shining example of how architecture can coexist harmoniously with nature. By embracing the unique qualities of the site, Harbison has created a home that not only meets the practical needs of a family but also celebrates the beauty of the coastal environment. The house is a sanctuary where the boundaries between indoors and outdoors blur, offering a true retreat into nature’s embrace.
