Spinifex House

Residential New Build - Adelaide, South Australia

Side view of the box-shaped dwelling, showcasing the clean lines of the galvanised corrugated iron cladding.

At probably half the size of many houses that now line our metro beachfront, Spinifex House is like that new kid in the playground dwarfed by the surrounding bullish show-offs.  Emulating the old shacks, she touches the ground lightly, respecting the dune and blurring the boundary to the adjacent reserve.  She deftly responds to the harsh and beautiful setting using an animated shell of corrugated iron as an integrated element to address entry, privacy, and protection, while ensuring dedicated frames to the gorgeous broad view of beach and sunset. Honest, tactile materials, efficient planning and connection to context offer a rich and cohesive living environment that captures the casual, relaxed feel of a holiday house.

Spinifex House is exemplary for Adelaide’s metro coast – a modest and counter-cultural leader who doesn’t need flex or fake tan.

Winner of the John S Chappel Award for New Houses in the Australian Institute of Architects Awards 2020

SCOPE: Residential New Build
ARCHITECTURE: Khab
INTERIOR ARCHITECTURE: Kirsty
PHOTOGRAPHY: Peter Barnes

Front elevation of the corrugated iron-clad residence, as viewed from the Henley cycling path.
View of the corrugated iron residence, highlighting the grey timber frontage and the natural timber detailing within the open mid-section.

“Our new home works perfectly for the three of us. The spaces are connected beautifully with the right amount of separation between areas. We can get on with the different things that come along with family life without feeling separated. Being on an exposed site the design gives us the desirable privacy and protection from the elements while maximising the view.

Sarah and Todd Willetts 2020

A ground floor perspective from the timber staircase, featuring a minimalist corrugated iron balustrade.
Exposed timber void overlooking the dining area, featuring a structural cutout in the corrugated iron roofing.
Exposed timber void overlooking the entrance area, featuring a structural cutout in the corrugated iron roofing.
A diagonal perspective of the dining area, framed by timber feature walls and a large window capturing views over the entrance and Henley Beach.
A close-up of the timber void, featuring integrated timber seating and a framed vantage point into the dining area.
Angled view of the entrance area and the adjacent living room overlooking the ocean.
A diagonal perspective through the timber-clad kitchen, where natural stone walls guide the eye toward the elevated living area.
Detail view of the corrugated iron structure, demonstrating the dominance of the material against a sliver of sky.
Front elevation of the residence, highlighting the grey timber facade and the gravel entrance with timber sleepers marking the path.

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