Ease of living was at the heart of this dual-occupancy project in Huskisson on the NSW South Coast. With the beach directly across the street, our brief was to create homes that felt relaxed, durable and perfectly suited to coastal life - spaces where you could come in with sandy feet, rinse off, settle in and feel instantly at home.

We began with a classic weatherboard cottage that had plenty of charm but was structurally compromised and no longer fit for purpose. Replacing it created the opportunity not just for one new dwelling, but two thoughtfully designed homes that reflect the changing lifestyle expectations of today’s coastal communities.

The dual-occupancy model also provided a smart financial outcome. The additional dwelling enabled the owner–developer to offset costs through the sale of one home. Our client, a builder we’ve collaborated with for close to 25 years, took this on as part of stepping back from full-time building work - and the timing proved ideal.

Despite some conditions imposed by Council that went beyond their published policies, we were still able to accommodate all requirements within the design. Each home includes four bedrooms, a home office, generous living spaces, secure parking and room for the essential coastal accessory: the boat.

Durability and performance were key. We used ICF construction (Insulated Concrete Forms) with elevated insulated concrete floors, delivering exceptional structural strength while providing superior thermal mass and acoustic insulation. The floor construction acts as a heat and cool store, contributing to comfortable internal temperatures throughout the year.

The result is two large, generous homes with calm, connected spaces, warm materials and finishes designed to stand up to sandy feet, salt spray and the rhythms of coastal family life. Originally the plan was to sell only one dwelling; however, demand was so strong that an offer arrived for the second home, which our client simply couldn’t refuse.