Nestled on the breezy coastline of the Mornington Peninsula, this thoughtful project transforms a modest mid‑century beach shack into a vibrant multi‑generational retreat crafted for comfort, memory‑making and future generations. The heart of the brief given to Ben Callery Architects, was simple yet profound: Gai and Peter wanted a place where, most weekends, they could join their three adult children and their families, unite across generations, yet enjoy a home that works for both a lively full‑house and a quiet couple’s sanctuary.
At the same time they wished to retain the charm of the original shack while embracing an environmentally friendly, energy‑efficient, high‑performance home. The inspiration came from the original verandah: a pitched roof framing the views of trees, winter sun pouring in, summer breezes flowing, fly‑screens spanning a slender structure. It was immediately evocative of “holiday”, that informal, welcoming spirit would become the guiding light for the redesign.
The new addition channels that spirit architecturally and experientially. The pitched form of the original verandah is replicated in the new rear wing, but elongated and elevated to frame the tree‑canopy beyond and the warming winter sun in. Its sides rake down dramatically to carve cosy informal zones for fire‑lit chats, relaxed reading or three‑generation game nights. This new space stands as the communal hub: large enough for the whole family, yet intimate when it’s just Gai and Peter, thanks to smart zoning.
The thoughtful layout splits the home into two distinct wings. The renovated original shack becomes the children’s wing — shared spaces for offspring and grandchildren. Meanwhile the new addition houses the main bedroom and retreat for Gai and Peter on its first floor: bathed in morning light, tucked amongst treetops, offering a sanctuary when they need to escape the cheerful whirl of family.
Between the two wings lies the generous living room — the connective tissue that allows the home to expand and contract. On full family weekends, everyone gathers here; when only the couple stay, they can effectively shut off the kids’ wing and live energy‑efficiently in the newer wing alone.
The sustainability and performance part of the brief was honoured too: the house is all‑electric, with windows placed to capture prevailing cooling breezes and warming winter sun. The form, materials and orientation all contribute to the vision of a home that not only honours the past, but is poised for the future.
In this transformation, the project demonstrates how a mid‑century beach house can evolve. It retains the nostalgic charm of beach holidays past — the simplicity, the verandah grace, the ease of seaside days — while embracing refined architecture, sustainable living and multi‑generational functionality. This isn’t just a home remodel; it’s a family legacy shaped in timber, glass, breeze and sunlight, ready for years of family gatherings, quiet mornings and the timeless joy of togetherness by the sea.
