Though small and dated, this charming beachside home had undeniable character — and our client saw its potential from the start. They came to us with plans already in hand, ready to extend and enhance this coastal gem without compromising its original charm.
The vision was clear: expand the home’s footprint to take full advantage of the stunning beachfront views while preserving the essence of the original structure. It was a delicate balance — modernising and enlarging the home without overwhelming its character.
The biggest challenge came early in the project: getting it out of the ground. The entire extension was to be supported by a substantial block retaining wall — no easy feat given the coastal soil conditions and site levels. To tackle this, our engineering and design team worked together to rework elements of the foundation design, including a custom drainage solution to manage groundwater and ensure long-term structural stability.
Once the retaining wall was in place, the rest of the build came together seamlessly. Great care was taken during the transition from old to new — blending materials, lines, and finishes to honour the original architecture while still allowing the new extension to speak with a fresh, modern voice.
The result is a beautifully integrated home that now feels larger, lighter, and more connected to its incredible surroundings — all without losing the character that made it special in the first place.