











SOUTH COOGEE HOUSE
This project was done in conjunction with the Jacqueline Bosscher of the design commission and the colour commission in regards to the external architectural works.
The brief was to transform a house with no insulation, limited indoor/outdoor flow, poor planning and air quality, into an energy-efficient house with increased flow, views and ventilation. The transformation aimed to reconnect the house to the site, embracing and increasing outdoor spaces, linking to the street and opening it up to views of the ocean.
A site-specific concept explored the environments of a sea cliff. The top floor represents the plateau with its weathered natural textures, openness to the sky and breezes, and 180-degree coastal views. The middle floor symbolises sheltered caves and rock faces. The bottom floor signifies where cliff meets ocean. Each floor expresses the textures, light and forms of its corresponding environment through its use of materials.
The existing building was stripped bare exposing a series of long, horizontal concrete layers stepping down the steep site. Internal volumes were carved out creating a progression of interconnecting internal and external spaces, transitioning vertically from public zones to private areas.
A new, long, horizontal canopy leads from the street entry into the public living spaces, with overlapping connections to the garden, pool and terrace.
A new ‘skin’ of UBIQ (magnesium oxide cement panel), cedar lining boards, timber- and steel-framed double glazing gives the building a new visual identity.
Major new apertures occur to the west, connecting living areas to the garden and pool; to the east taking in expansive views; and to the north allowing natural light deep into the house.
Photographer- Sharrin Rees