Manly Cove Residence
Manly Cove Residence
Concept Clean-Lined Coastal
Beginning its life as a Federation terrace, this family home underwent an extensive rebuild, becoming a three-storey contemporary residence, and maintaining only two of its existing walls. Working closely with Archisoul Architects in the initial design phase, we suggested subtle changes to further enhance the functionality and flow of the internal layout, including elevating the ensuite and introducing a walk-in robe for the master bedroom. Our aim was to create a refined and modernised take on the ‘coastal scheme’, introducing layers of bright white, contrasting soft greys, neutrals, light oak, and harmonious textural elements. We wanted to explore the embodiment of light – both a brightening, and the feeling of unbridled freedom that fills you when you’re on holiday by the ocean.
The base palette combines fresh, bright white, with engineered oak floorboards, tumbled limestone tiles and soft grey wool carpet. V groove panelling and Jalousie louvred windows bring a hint of that mid-century beach shack feel.
The open plan kitchen, dining and living is drenched in an abundance of light. Here, the motif of curvature that recurs throughout the home is established in both the wave-like ceiling and key walls. The kitchen island reflects this, with the marbled benchtop’s shark-nose detail showcasing the curved, wraparound fluting. All joinery is bespoke, weaving together light oak timber veneer with fine slotted detailing, and complementary white, clean-lined cabinetry.
A bench seat and back rest in tan leather completes a comfortable dine-in area, before the marbling continues its flow into the living space as a low shelf with subtle storage capacity, meeting the sweeping wall of the fireplace. We designed this feature wall – finishing it in Venetian plaster to bring earthen texture – to house a minimalist gas fireplace for winter warmth. It reflects the wave of the ceiling above that meets a horizontal skylight, flooding light through the space. Floor to ceiling sliding doors lead out into the manicured garden and entertaining space.
Down the hall, the laundry provides optional functionality as a smaller room. It blends textures and understated colour, with mottled grey benchtops sitting alongside oak timber veneer cabinetry that delivers plenty of space to harbour the household necessities. A Moroccan Zellige tile splashback emits a textured luminescence as light spills through the frosted glass window.
The powder room and ensuite bathroom feature tumbled limestone tiles, light oak vanities with marbled tops, brushed nickel tapware and Japanese kit kat tiles in a powdery blue/grey that bring a hint of colour. The soft curves are reflected in the simple, white-framed mirrors, vanity tops and choice of lighting – a Nordic-style double sconce for the powder room, and an organic, hand-blown pendant light for the luxurious ensuite. The ensuite allows a private, softly lit space. All elements, from the frameless shower glass to the inset mirrored cabinets, are refined to create calming simplicity. The sense of protected personal space begins at the door to the master bedroom with a longer entranceway, providing cupboards for ample storage, and allowing only a keyhole glimpse into a secluded haven.
This home feels like a place to retreat – somewhere to escape the bustle and nestle in – reading a book in the reading nook along the hallway, or sitting on the lounge as the breeze gently moves the sheer curtains. Wishing our clients many peaceful hours together in their bright and shining new home!
