Gully House, by Andrew Burges Architects, is situated on a steep site backing into the forested gully of Clovelly Beach in Sydney. Designed as a 3-4 bedroom residence, the project sought to establish a strong connection to its surroundings both spatially and materially. The original masonry cottage had minimal links between its north-facing front and its south-facing rear which directly accessed Clovelly Beach. The design reimagined the house as an extension of the gully, maintaining visual continuity across the site. The north/south facade, with its transparency and split-level cross-section, visually connects the northern courtyard to the southern landscape. Meanwhile, the east/west facades serve as filters for privacy, ventilation and glare, incorporating layered planting. Given the proximity of neighbouring dwellings, various screening systems—including masonry, timber, and brick—were used. Materials such as stone paving and concrete create seamless transitions between indoor and outdoor spaces, softened by refined oak finishes.
Photography by Peter Bennetts & Hamish Macintosh.
Michael Ellison designs spaces that tell a personal story, blending a youthful spirit with modern luxury. His tailored, layered approach incorporates unique pieces and striking art, creating serene, inviting environments. Rejecting rigid luxury, he prioritizes comfort and joy, crafting designs that elevate daily living while encouraging exploration and interaction.
Welcome to this outstanding Nantucket home by Studio Michael Ellison.
Photography by Nicole Franzen.
This seaside home, nestled on Pacific Ocean dunes, was designed for empty nesters seeking casual comfort for their family. Lauren Nelson Design reimagined the layout, updated interiors, and furnished the three-bedroom retreat. The result is understated, offering quiet luxury with natural, durable materials that harmonize with the coastal surroundings of beach, ocean, and mountains, ensuring timeless elegance in a marine environment.
Photographer by Stephanie Russo.
Somers House by Kennedy Nolan serves as a weekender, summerhouse and a family gathering space for the owners’ children, partners and grandchildren. Blending architecture and interior design into a unified approach, it exemplifies harmony between form, space and material. With charred timber cladding, ochre render and oiled Douglas Fir, the home offers a tactile, resilient design suited to its wild Westernport Bay setting. The palette, inspired by Gija artist Queenie McKenzie and Luis Barragán’s vibrant hues, balances robustness and warmth. Every element—from red travertine to textured finishes—creates a sanctuary where privacy and togetherness coexist, celebrating timelessness, weathered beauty and distinctly Australian coastal aesthetics.
Photography by Derek Swalwell.
A second home is a dream of mine – a cottage to be able to do all the design things I wish I could have done in my main house, or the second-runner-up of styles I wished I would have done but caved and went the safe route. This historic coastal cottage in Northport, Maine is definitively giving cottage vibes but also so much vintage charm and such pretty, joyful colours that really make this an awesome place to spend with family and friends. Another wonderful project by Reath Design. Photos: Laure Joliet.