South Coogee

Project commenced: 2014

Architect : Virginia Zanarini

When the architect and owners approached us to bring their vision to life, we knew this project would be something special. Set on a prestigious, north-facing block with uninterrupted views over Wedding Cake Island, work began with demolition in 2014 — and from there, something truly unique started to take shape.

The design made full use of the block’s orientation, ensuring the home captures sunlight all day while showcasing the spectacular coastal outlook. The owners wanted a home they could live in comfortably without relying on internal stairs — and we made that dream a reality.

At the end of a sweeping driveway sits a spacious double garage, cleverly fitted with a car turntable. No reversing up the steep driveway with limited vision— just drive straight out with ease. The driveway itself was paved with fully permeable hard rubber, allowing rainwater to soak naturally into the ground rather than flooding toward the garage.

Building on this sloping coastal road brought some memorable challenges — including the delivery of 14-meter-long curved steel roof beams. With the road falling sharply toward the sea, setting up a crane took careful precision (and a little persuasion of the crane operator!). But the result? A beautifully curved steel roof designed to flood the interior with northern light, while allowing cooling southerly breezes to sweep up and over the home.

The structure is a solid mix of masonry, suspended concrete slabs, structural steel, and timber — a combination that balances strength with warmth. We installed high-end aluminium doors and windows to frame a massive opening onto the timber deck, seamlessly blending indoor and outdoor living.

One of the home's standout features is the light-filled main en-suite bathroom. Perfectly positioned to overlook the ocean, it offers the ultimate start to the day — a morning shower with a view. The kitchen, complete with an oversized marble island, was also designed to face the ocean, creating a living space that feels both luxurious and connected to nature.

We also added a show-stopping pool, fitted with sleek glazed panels on two sides — one facing the ocean, the other opening onto a lush garden. Thanks to a built-in cover, the pool stays warm and clean at the touch of a button.

Finally, the home is completed with a beautifully turfed and landscaped garden — a private green retreat that frames the home and enhances its coastal feel.

If you're dreaming of a renovation that embraces natural light, maximises views, and delivers both beauty and practical living — this project shows just how transformative the right design and construction team can be.