Set amongst a picturesque location on Queensland’s Capricorn Coast, the Design+Architecture-designed Spyglasses Residence is the embodiment of a luxurious multigenerational dwelling.
Set upon a steep, sloping block that overlooks the Southern Great Barrier Reef and Great Keppel Island, the practice were handed a challenge by the client’s that required them to thoughtfully allow for the house to take advantage of the views on offer without compromising on privacy or blocking the view of other houses within the neighbourhood. Opting to use the slope of the site to their advantage, Design+Architecture created a modular design that consists of a series of self-contained living ‘pods’ that are set at different levels to revel in the views without giving too much away to onlookers.
The brief provided the practice asked for an exterior of modern elegance, that was to stand out without being overly extravagant. It features neutral grey and white tones, polished concrete blocks, commercially rated cladding, modern geometric shapes and large windows are therefore key features that give the home modern individuality and striking street appeal. Screens and awnings further this idea of modern elegance, while also adding privacy without taking away from the first-rate views of the home.
Given the multigenerational makeup of the occupants, the pods allow for each family to live as separately or as openly as they like under the one roof. Each pod has a self-contained living area, with the upstairs level fully self-contained. It features a master bedroom and full kitchenette while a self-contained studio is located on the lower level. A multi-level outdoor entertaining area and pool double as the connective space between upper and lower levels, which allows all generations of the family to convene and connect.
A number of personal touches inform much of the interior’s aesthetic, with the client requesting a space in remembrance of the owner’s late wife and the rooms referencing elements of their original family home in Brisbane. Given how well travelled the client’s are, much of the house showcases the couple’s extensive travels with the walls of each room subsequently being adorned with items from their travel collection. The gardens have been created by Design+Architecture in collaboration with a local landscape architecture firm that works with the design of the dwelling to further nurture the luxury retreat feel of the whole site. Lush green lawns, dark grey retaining walls and a dry creek bed that runs the entire length of the property maximise the views while creating an enviable zen atmosphere.
Modern and elegant in character, Spyglasses Residence epitomises the innovation and accessibility of contemporary modular living. The home, comprising a number of living pods, allows for each generation within the home to live comfortably and privately at their choosing, with a number of outdoor and garden spaces ensuring the family can congregate and connect together when they desire.
