Q In 2010 we bought a property on the south coast of New South Wales and have saved about $500,000 to build our dream home. We are empty nesters so do not need a big place, but our conundrum is to know what to build. With about five acres, space is no problem, but we can’t agree on a design that’s relevant for this part of the world. What would you advise?
AI know this area. My best tip is to find a good architect. Even for small projects they will be worth their weight in gold. From my experience this area is rich in both indigenous history and local craftsmen. The area around Tilba Tilba is particularly interesting with the Gulaga National Park and the traditional Yuin peoples that lived there. Maybe you are interested in connecting with these opportunities to inform the basis of the design approach. Defer to the landscape/seascape for building form and materiality. This reference will help deliver a building with meaning.