What was once an unassuming blond brick relic of the 1970s has undergone an extraordinary transformation into a coastal family haven. Freshwater House designed by Annabelle Chapman Architect on Gai-mariagal land now exudes the relaxed elegance of a Greek seaside villa, blending seamlessly with its natural surroundings. Located just a stone’s throw from the beach, it’s the perfect retreat for a modern family looking to enjoy the best of coastal living…
The rejuvenation of this once plain and tired home began with a striking exterior makeover. The original blond brick has been replaced with a lime wash render, softening the structure and giving the home a timeless, handcrafted feel. The lime wash creates an inviting warmth that complements the surrounding landscape, while a newly introduced tropical garden adds a lush and vibrant contrast to the clean, whitewashed walls. This pairing of greenery and white walls evokes a sense of tranquillity, reminiscent of a serene island getaway.
Stepping inside, the transformation continues with a thoughtful redesign of the home’s interior. The entry hall, with its wide proportions and soaring double-height staircase, immediately sets the tone for the rest of the house. This grand yet welcoming space leads into a comfortable room featuring custom-designed, wide upholstered window seats. The seats create a cosy nook, perfect for reading in the afternoon sun or gathering with the family to watch TV. It’s a simple but impactful design detail that adds both function and charm to the home.
At the end of the entry hall, the house opens into a spacious, open-plan kitchen and living area, which serves as the heart of the home. Here, bespoke detailing shines through, offering a perfect balance of style and practicality. Off to the side of the kitchen, a recessed nook provides a designated space for family dinners, board games, or even homework sessions. It’s a clever use of space that caters to the busy rhythm of family life.
One of the standout features of the home is how seamlessly the indoor and outdoor areas merge. Large glass steel sliding doors connect the open-plan living space to the rear terrace, creating an effortless flow between the indoors and the lush backyard. The terrace looks out over a level lawn and a sparkling swimming pool, where the family can enjoy warm summer days. Adjacent to the pool is a cabana that offers a shaded retreat, perfect for lazy afternoons or entertaining friends and family.
Moving upstairs, the focus on functional yet beautiful design continues. All the bedrooms open off a double-height home office and games room, creating a central hub for work or play. Each bedroom has been thoughtfully designed with bespoke wardrobes, desks, and bedhead joinery, ensuring that every room is not only functional but also reflective of the family’s personality.
Freshwater House is a stunning example of how a dated 1970s structure can be reimagined into a coastal family oasis, blending elegance with practicality. Annabelle Chapman Architect has successfully breathed new life into this property, creating a home that feels timeless yet tailored to the needs of a modern family. The result is a space that’s not only beautiful but also invites relaxation, connection, and effortless living—exactly what a family home should be.
