After initially working with the clients on the city dwelling, Pleysier Perkins architects were excited to jump back on board and revamp the family’s coastal getaway. The 1960s mid-century shack was full of charm, but studio director Berit Barton explains that the kitchen, dining, and living area required improved spatial flow, and the entire property was ready for a minor facelift.

The architects introduced an island to the kitchen to re-direct the flow, and opened up the kitchen and lounge room with new windows that offer views to the garden. Berit highlights how the new addition of a playroom/lounge ‘created much-needed space to take the pressure off the existing living room, while also creating a new connection between the front and rear of the house.’ The full-height doors at both ends of this new addition connect the space with the outdoors, and this blurring of boundaries is enhanced by crazy pavers (yes, they are a real thing!) that commence inside the home, and gently lead you out to the grassy outdoor areas.

The ‘mid-century charm’ of the beach-side property has been enhanced by joinery and lighting updates that Berit describes as giving a ‘respectful nod to the original era of the house.’ This tip of the mid-century hat is also evident in the new colour scheme; dated beige has been replaced with 70s-inspired terrazzo bench tops, solid local hardwood, glazed coloured tiles, and blue painted weatherboards. These additions enhanced the existing lattice steel trusses and white timber windows, as well as the client’s own collection of vintage modernist furniture. Relaxed beachside chic at its best!