1115 Sandstone Beach House
Sandstone Beach House is a residential renovation and alteration in Cottesloe, Perth, transforming an existing brick cottage into a contemporary coastal family home defined by natural light, ventilation and considered functionality.
Located less than 200 metres from South Cottesloe Beach, the project responds to a brief to upgrade a dark, inward-looking dwelling into a bright and highly liveable home suited to the Western Australian coastal lifestyle. The renovation forms part of a paired development, where two neighbouring cottages were reimagined together to create a cohesive streetscape defined by distinctive sandstone architectural portals.
The design carefully retains the relationship between the two homes, with complementary massing and a shared architectural language that enhances the character of the street. A new contemporary façade introduces a strong yet timeless identity, balancing the scale of the original cottage with a refined material palette.
The renovation significantly increases wall openings and glazing to improve natural light, cross ventilation and connection to outdoor spaces. New aluminium windows and doors replace the original timber elements, improving thermal performance, durability and ease of maintenance. Perforated aluminium screens provide privacy and security while allowing airflow, reinforcing a relaxed and breathable coastal environment.
Material selection reflects the home’s proximity to the ocean, with natural sandstone and limestone used throughout both the interior and exterior. This restrained palette creates continuity across the project and anchors the home within its coastal context.
Working within a constrained budget, the project demonstrates how strategic renovations and alterations can deliver a substantial transformation without the need for a complete rebuild. The existing cottage was internally reconfigured to improve spatial flow, natural light and usability. The introduction of a sculptural portal form draws northern winter sunlight deep into the home, addressing previous issues of dark and poorly ventilated interiors.
Outdoor spaces are integral to the design, with the main kitchen and living areas extending to a private courtyard and alfresco zone. This outdoor living space supports everyday use and entertaining, while a plunge pool set within a landscaped garden provides a calm retreat. The reconfiguration of external areas also allowed for an upgraded garage with additional enclosed space, offering flexibility for storage, a home gym, studio or future lifestyle needs.
This Perth home renovation highlights how thoughtful architectural design can transform an existing house through targeted alterations, improving performance, comfort and connection to place while creating a timeless coastal home.
Photos by Code Lime Photography