Sunshine Beach
Sunshine Coast Queensland
The Sunshine Beach House, which was previously known as the Prell House was designed by renowned architect Gabriel Poole in 1997. The design reflected an abstraction of Mediterranean and Mexican influences to present a series of living and sleeping spaces around a central courtyard on a steeply sloping site. The careful arrangement of the spaces protected from the prevailing sea breezes, opened up to the Northern aspect while maintaining privacy.
In many ways the house is an idiosyncratic design and the new owners sought changes that would enable more living space and all weather connections between the sleeping quarters, without sacrificing the unique character of the place. The key to the design remains the central Outdoor Room, now roofed with a translucent battened roof, linking the living spaces during all but the most inclement weather. The timber seating, landscaping and green wall maintain the outdoor feel and the space is softened by soft furnishings and cushions.
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All-Weather Connectivity
Introduce discreet, permeable enclosures or covered walkways between sleeping and living areas, respecting the openness of the original design while enhancing usability.
Expanded Living Space
Modest extensions or spatial reconfigurations to increase usable living areas without compromising the openness or garden courtyards.
Material and Texture Continuity
Use timber, natural renders, and tactile textiles to maintain the sensory language of the original home.
Integration of green walls, built-in timber seating, and soft furnishings enhance the natural character.
Layered landscaping reflects the Mediterranean-Mexican heritage—low maintenance, drought-tolerant plantings.
The green wall and embedded seating provide functional softness and a visual buffer between spaces.
Emphasis on natural light, filtered shade, and views through framed openings.
Client
Project Services
Completed
20102
Key Personnel
Beth Wilson, Ilka Salisbury
Traditional Custodians of the Land
Gubbi Gubbi Nation