Set within a hillside amphitheater township – the beautiful Lorne, the client was hoping to create a beach home that opened outward to the elements to maximize the stunning view; but also to realize a playful internal sanctuary allowing for slow enjoyable days, entertaining, and family life.

The architect’s material of choice was applying charred timber boards to the façade and internal lining—a traditional Japanese technique of blackening timber. Well suited to this coastal project due to its durability and low maintenance, but also aesthetically, it is subtle, raw, and unobtrusive, making it perfect for Lorne.

Given the house is made up of a cluster of unique spaces and moments both internally and externally, it seemed fit that the materials were also consistent between interior and exterior.

A material that feels quite subtle externally, letting the natural environment do the work, also feels quite dramatic internally. The dramatic entry draws the user through and up, back to the tree line and horizon.

Other internal spaces required a more playful, relaxed atmosphere – completely juxtaposed from the rich and dramatic charred timber material. The kitchen and reading nook draw on the tones and markings from the ocean. The architects selected a brushed leather granite island bench because of its raw and robust finish and swell-like markings. The light blue V-Groove kitchen lining offers a pop of freshness and playfulness to the home – a space perfect for long mellow lunches and weekends of cooking.

Project by Corke Design Studio

Photography by Emily Bartlett