Coastal Garden House NSW

Designed for a couple and their two children, the Haxstead Garden House in Cental Tiba, NSWAustralia is located within a rural setting on a large historic family estate, surrounded by native bushland and landscaped gardens overlooking the Sapphire Coast.

Designed by Tobias Partners, the brief called for a house that would enjoy views, offer protection from bracing winds and heavy rainfall, provide a strong connection with nature; and given its harsh location and remoteness, be tough and as low-maintenance as possible. Previously containing garages for the main homestead, the site selected has sweeping views to the south-east so the material combination, in-situ concrete on the southern facade and a pre-fabricated galvanised steel structure to the north, was chosen to buffer the elements and engage with views of the surrounding landscape.

The design approach aims for a clear expression of its construction with highly resolved details that take form in concrete, steel, glass and timber. There is an economy of material employed throughout. With no superfluous components or lavish decorative elements, materials are expressed as both form and finish. The level of refinement achieved and the cost-effective building program is testament to the construction team led by builder Pat Waddell.

Myles Baldwin designed the gardens to reflect the coastal location. A perimeter of Melaleuca and Casuarina trees blend with the native bush, and Norfolk Island pines punctuate lawns and are complemented by sculptural beds of native Poa, exotic Miscanthus grasses, cactus and succulents.