Salt Of The Earth

Built as an ode to its seaside location, this home is as robust as it is tranquil and timeless.

- Elizabeth Wilson

TERRACE/GARDEN

Conceptualised by Bower Architecture & Interiors, this home was designed to ‘drape’ over the landscape. A cantilevered concrete patio extends into a gently terraced garden featuring concrete walkways with gravel inserts, reflection ponds, and a mix of native and coastal species. Landscape design by Andrew Laidlaw of Laidlaw & Laidlaw Design with Andrea Proctor Landscapes.

After more than 40 years of living and farming on the southern tip of Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula, Peter and Michelle knew it was time to downsize. But they didn’t want to move far from the rolling hills and clifftops that had been the constant backdrop to their lives. They had always loved the wildness of the place and especially adored the panoramic views of the dramatic seascape below, where the waters of Western Port Bay collide with the swells of the Bass Strait.

Their priority was to find a block and build a future-proofed home in a nearby township. “They were tied to that landscape and the community they love,” says architect Chema Bould, codirector of Bower Architecture & Interiors. “They wanted a good-size block close to town where they could create a beautiful garden, a sense of calm and stay connected to nature.” Michelle and Peter were introduced to Bower through longtime friends whose new home was designed by the team. “They enlisted us early on and I visited a few sites with them. It was very special to be involved in that way,” says Chema.