Oceanfront Living: Designing the Perfect Beach House in WA
There can be few places in the world better suited to beach-house living than here in WA. So many of us live close to the coast, and even if we aren’t lucky enough to have panoramic ocean views, we at least benefit from the sunshine and the sea breezes.
A beautiful beach house blends style, comfort, and functionality with a seamless connection to the natural beauty of the surrounding beach and coastal landscape.
The key features of a great beach house extend beyond the view – it’s about creating a liveable space that is relaxing, practical, and designed to embrace the coastal lifestyle.
Key Features of a Beautiful Beach House
- Open, Airy Layout: High ceilings, wide-open spaces, and large windows create a feeling of airiness and flow. The floorplan should be spacious with natural light flooding in, allowing easy movement and creating a relaxed atmosphere.
- Indoor-Outdoor Living: A seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces is a hallmark of a great beach house. Consider expansive sliding glass doors that open onto a deck, patio, or balcony, blurring the lines between inside and out. A large, shaded porch, verandah, or terrace offers a comfortable place to eat, relax, or entertain outdoors.
- Views, Views, Views: Expansive windows, open terraces, and even glass railings (instead of solid walls) on decks and balconies ensure unobstructed views of our wonderful Indian Ocean and vast blue sky.
- Natural, Durable Materials: The materials used in a beach house need to withstand the harsh coastal environment while still feeling warm and inviting. Opt for natural materials such as:
- Wood: Weathered wood or reclaimed wood adds character and warmth, especially for floors, ceilings, and accents.
- Stone and Marble: Beach rocks, limestone, and marble can create elegant yet rustic features for countertops, walls, or fireplace surrounds.
- Glass: Glass railings, windows, and doors that provide unobstructed views and let in light without sacrificing protection from the wind and weather.
- Functional, Relaxing Design: Comfort is key in a beach house designed for living. Soft, comfortable furniture that can handle the wear and tear of sand and salt, combined with casual coastal-inspired decor, is ideal.
- Sustainable, Eco-Friendly Features: Since beach houses are often near sensitive ecosystems, incorporating eco-friendly features is crucial. Solar panels, rainwater collection, efficient insulation, and low-maintenance landscaping can help reduce the environmental impact.
- Outdoor Spaces for Entertainment: Whether it’s a fire pit, an outdoor kitchen, or a cosy lounge area, the perfect beach house has spaces designed for enjoying the outdoors, especially in the evenings. Think about building areas for alfresco dining, lounging, or even an outdoor shower to rinse off after a day at the beach.
Colours and Materials Best Suited to a Beach House
- Colour Palette:
- Soft Neutrals: Light, airy tones like whites, greys, beiges, and sand evoke the natural tones of the beach. These shades help reflect natural light and create a soothing atmosphere.
- Ocean-Inspired Blues: Soft, pale blues or deeper oceanic blues create a calming atmosphere reminiscent of the sea. Accents in aqua, turquoise, or navy can bring a touch of colour without overwhelming the space.
- Seafoam Greens: Subtle greens that mirror the colours of seaweed or ocean foam add a touch of nature to the space.
- Natural Wood Tones: Warm wood finishes, whether light or weathered, offer a sense of warmth and texture that complements the natural surroundings.
- Whitewashed or Bleached Wood: This gives a coastal, laid-back vibe while also being practical for a beach house, especially since it reflects light.
- Materials:
- Wood: For both aesthetics and durability, weathered or reclaimed wood works well for flooring, panelling, and furniture.
- Stone: Beach stones, limestone, and sandstone are perfect for adding texture to countertops, fireplaces, and walls.
- Glass: Large windows and glass doors not only enhance the views but allow for natural ventilation, perfect for a coastal climate.
- Linens & Cotton: Lightweight, breathable fabrics like linen and cotton for cushions, throws, and bedding help maintain a relaxed, airy atmosphere.
Every detail in a beach house is designed to maintain a balance between luxury and functionality, ensuring that every day spent here feels like a coastal retreat. The materials are durable, low-maintenance, and blend harmoniously with the coastal environment. This is a home designed not just for holidays, but for a year-round beachside lifestyle.
Find inspiration in our collection of bespoke designs.
