Conceived by Laney LA as a sanctuary for a family of four, the home is a fitting addition to the narrow lots of its seaside setting. “Located on a pedestrian-only walk street, the house is nestled among an eclectic mix of beach bungalows, contemporary structures and traditional coastal homes,” describes practice founder and project architect, Anthony Laney. In response to the constraints of this 250-square-metre site, the architecture reaches skyward in search of solitude and sweeping outlooks. “It’s a uniquely dense suburban environment. Neighbours are nearly within arms-reach, so privacy was a priority in the design,” he adds.Traversing the sloping terrain, the three-storey dwelling presents an unconventional arrivals sequence – a fleeting ascent along an unassuming pathway that leads into the heart of abode. The house, in fact, offers a dual approach that is unique to this neighbourhood, instilling a sense of permeability. “First-time visitors must search for the formal entry, which is tucked away within a densely planted side yard,” explains Laney. “Guests enter onto the secluded second level of the home and are immediately ushered upstairs to the primary living domain.”
