Located in the beachfront suburb of Mornington, Victoria, this contemporary residence by SGKS offers a striking yet sensitive architectural response to its coastal context. Visually and programmatically unique, the house is conceived to sit gently within the existing lush landscape, prioritising harmony over dominance. Rather than imposing on its surroundings, the building blends in through its low-lying, one-storey form and carefully selected natural materials. This restrained approach allows the home to engage meaningfully with its environment while embracing a bold architectural identity.
A defining feature of the home is its use of rammed earth walls, which provide not only structural and thermal benefits but also a poetic connection to the earth itself. The material’s tactile quality and earthy red tones enhance the home’s groundedness, sequestering the architecture into the landscape both visually and literally. Though rammed earth requires precise execution, its expressive texture and raw honesty make it a central architectural feature.
Floor-to-ceiling glazing is used extensively throughout, dissolving the boundary between interior and exterior and offering uninterrupted views of the surrounding greenery and sky. A tranquil water pond marks key access points most notably the entrance, serving both as a visual threshold and a subtle reference to the home’s proximity to the beachfront.
The design clearly draws inspiration from mid-century modernist architecture. Emphasis on strong horizontal lines, bold geometric volumes, and the interplay between open space and enclosure evoke this timeless style. High ceilings in the living and dining areas create an uplifting sense of openness while enhancing the home’s connection to natural light and landscape. Materially, the house contrasts deep red earth tones with lighter elements such as stone and timber, creating a rich but balanced palette.
Altogether, the home stands as a thoughtful example of site-responsive, environmentally attuned, and timelessly inspired architecture.
Stage: Conceptual
Location: Red Hill
