Modest Builders create a high-impact house
Here’s a house with “challenges” written all over it.
The word occurs four times in Steve Haycock Construction’s modest two-paragraph description of this extraordinary Omaha Beach holiday home, but surely they could have used it more.
From one side, the 255sqm four-bedroom “bach” looks like a container ship; from another, an art gallery or museum. Viewed from the street, it could be the home of an artist or architect, resident on the Moon.
However, you’ll get none of this from the modest builders. They’ll tell you it was a tricky job to fit structure, tanks and soakage onto a small section without compromising the house’s sculptural looks or the owners’ privacy from (very) near neighbours.
They’ll allow that curved walls make things tricky for exterior and interior claddings and roof flashings, and that angled walls and an over hanging upper floor are not natural allies of supporting structures, services and plumb lines.
Ducting and wiring wasn’t straightforward either; bespoke concrete tilt panels, concealed service doors, inlaid curtain tracks and customised stairs and ballusters were involved.
With crisp white featuring prominently in the kitchen, bathroom and living areas, the result is a fresh comfortable haven for families and visitors alike. Bursts of colour in light coverings add a bit of fun.
A large deck from the living area provides ample space for a post-beach barbecue or lazy afternoon in the sun with a good book.
The only way to describe this stunning summer abode is a playful, friendly, family sanctuary executed with simplicity, imagination and grace. Enfolded by concrete ripples, timber screens and sympathetic landscaping, it’s also the antithesis of roughing it.
“This is a beautifully crafted home, delivering exceptional workmanship and joinery in an innovative and timeless way.”
JUDGES’ COMMENTS
Registered Master Builders House of the Year with Placemakers Awards 2011:
Premium New Homes $600,000-$1 Million – Gold Award + Local Category Winner
National Category Winner – Gold Reserve Award + National Winner