Place of escape
This breathtaking beachside abode capitalises on its spectacular ocean views and provides a sophisticated yet laid-back lifestyle.
The sea is a vital part of Australia’s heritage and culture, and with such a vast coastline, the draw of the sea is inescapable for most Australians. The owners of this coastal property approached Gremmo Homes with a desire to create a sophisticated dwelling which celebrated the magnificent ocean position at Greenhills Beach in southern Sydney.
The clients’ chosen aesthetic was one of honest material clarity and expression, allowing for fundamental rawness within the palette of glass, stone and natural timber. Modern styling complements the raw texture of the finishes and brings a casual purity to the home, dubbed Greenhills Escape.
The facade of the abode encompasses a pair of rectilinear volumes stacked atop one another, giving the home a distinctive identity — one that speaks of true contemporary design. Internally, the breathtaking home offers naturally illuminated spaces that provide optimum functionality and carefully considered zoning.
Inside, the introspective aspect makes this a welcoming home for an adult family. The incorporation of open spaces, the use of full-height glazing and an entrance that provides visual continuity from the front door through to the back fence, are all evidence of Greenhills Escape’s well-thought-out dimensions and meticulously choreographed lines. The orientation also allows for an abundance of natural light to fill the main living areas and a continuous flow of form between living zones.
Clutter-free and seemingly spare, the joinery is warm and inviting thanks to the use of tactile finishes. Of special note is the monumental island that defines the kitchen and responds to the clients’ brief for a highly contemporary living experience. The butler’s pantry also speaks to this, delivering an abundance of concealed appliances, while beautiful craftsmanship creates a jewel-like interior throughout the home.
On the first floor you will find spacious sleeping quarters, dedicated and completely private bathrooms, and a master suite which opens itself to an outdoor terrace overlooking the South Pacific Ocean.
The second floor is a luxury entertaining haven with glazing on all sides, allowing the family to rejoice in the premium ocean views. In this home every detail has been considered, from the integrated appliances to the seamless joinery and wine storage.
Designing and building amid changing coastal conditions can be challenging at times. For Greenhills Escape, this included high wind loads, sea-salt spray and the need to ensure privacy while enhancing the 360-degree views. To address the issue of wind loads and avoid the use of immense walls, Gremmo Homes’ design was thoughtful and well articulated.
Through the modular design and inclusion of custom louvred screens, Gremmo Homes was able to aesthetically soften the exterior as well as reduce the wind impact. As for the challenging ground strata, this dictated the use of steel piles, which achieved a larger depth and increased the size of the helix head to create more friction.
Importantly, the home also scores high on the environmental scale with its performance glazing, photovoltaic system and high-level insulation ensuring maximum thermal comfort.
From the astute joinery throughout the dwelling to the honest and robust materials, timeless layout, quality fixtures and fittings, and exquisite pool — no detail has been neglected in the design and build of this magnificent home. Greenhills Escape is a true celebration and representation of the clients’ personalities and desire to create a sophisticated home where the family could entertain in a flexible, innovative space.
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