Nestled in the great southern region of Western Australia on the traditional lands of the Noongar people, Lakeview House is more than a home—it’s a striking sculpture on the landscape. Perched on a hilltop, this off-grid retreat is a local landmark, visible from kilometres away. But don’t let its bold exterior fool you; this house designed by Coveney Browne Architects is as functional as it is fabulous, blending contemporary design with clever environmental strategies.
The brief? A fully off-grid home that connects with the land, respects its working farm setting, and makes the most of its dramatic lakeside views. The result? A showstopper of a house that delivers on all fronts.
Positioning the home atop a hill maximised the spectacular lake and farm views below but it meant contending with southern winds that could knock your hat clean off. To tackle this, the house wraps itself in a protective outer shell on three sides, forming a defensive barrier that opens up to the north. The reward? A sheltered outdoor living area where you can soak up winter sun, sip your cuppa, and marvel at the rugged beauty of the landscape, without being blown away.
Lakeview House borrows its design cues from the surrounding agricultural buildings, ensuring it feels right at home in its rural setting. With a palette of black and white, the house contrasts dramatically against the earthy tones of the land. This minimalist colour scheme puts the focus squarely on its bold geometric forms—an architectural nod to the no-nonsense character of farm life, but with a decidedly modern twist.
A granite outcrop to the north acts as a natural waypoint, dictating how visitors approach the house. The winding road reveals the home gradually, like unwrapping a beautifully designed gift. Inside, strategically placed windows frame isolated trees and panoramic vistas, creating a series of ever-changing snapshots of the farm and lakes beyond. Careful planning, aided by satellite mapping, ensures every room is treated to its own unique piece of living artwork.
The design of Lakeview House is all about connection—both to the land and within the home itself. North-facing living spaces flow seamlessly into outdoor areas via expansive stacking glass doors, blurring the line between inside and out. The boys’ rooms feature cosy north-facing window seats—perfect for soaking in winter sun, curling up with a book, or simply daydreaming while gazing across the property.
Smart passive solar design means the home is naturally warm in winter and cool in summer, with cross-ventilation keeping things breezy. Meanwhile, views from the front to the back of the house flood the interior with light, creating a sense of openness and transparency.
Lakeview House doesn’t just sit on the land—it’s part of it. By referencing the forms and materials of the farm, embracing off-grid living, and maximising its connection to the surrounding environment, this home stands as a testament to thoughtful, place-sensitive design. It’s a place to work, relax, and revel in the beauty—a modern retreat that feels right at home in the heart of nature.
