Blairgowrie House

The light-filled Blairgowrie Residence makes a case for collaboration, combining the forces of three different design identities. As the family holiday home of landscape architect Nathan Burkett, Nathan worked with Webster Architecture & Interiors and stylist Simone Haag to bring his ‘dream’ project to life. A holistic approach was taken in all aspects of the design process, conjuring a modern Australian beach haven complete with a closely integrated outdoor space.

Dan, Nathan and Simone’s teams merged their design inspiration to create a collective vision for Nathan’s family home. They sought a clean, purposeful and elegant coastal residence that resonated with its relaxed Blairgowrie location.

The home sees a focus on quality finishes with a high level of detail. Webster Architecture & Interiors principal Dan Webster attributes the home’s relaxed and contemporary atmosphere to a desire for subtle differentiation from the usual beachside escape. “Many contemporary coastal homes are light in their colours and materiality, but this home attempts to challenge that through the use of charred timber and other earthy, rugged and durable materials and textures,” he says. “The simplicity in the exterior form and material palette also allows the home to sit in a newly created environment, that makes it have a sense of belonging, solidity and groundedness.”

A highlight of the Blairgowrie Residence is its interior and exterior connection. Nathan Burkett worked closely with architect Dan Webster and his team to create a fluid connection between the indoor and outdoor spaces. The landscaped surroundings feature an outdoor fireplace and courtyard to gather and entertain and an integrated pool, all framed by overhead beams. Nathan regards the synergy between design and landscaping as a standout feature of the family holiday home. “The garden’s levels were designed to create a sense of enclosure around the exterior dining areas and a unique elevated perspective of the architecture from the formal lawn,” Nathan says.

A key feature of the Blairgowrie Residence is the cathedral ceilings which enhance a sense of space, accentuated by the v-groove wall panelling. Muted green and tan tones punctuate the all-white, panelled walls and play on the coastal theme, together with textured boucle furniture and oak flooring and cabinetry.

The layout and styling were heavily shaped by the need for family-friendly interiors. Another consideration was the time frame, which influenced the decision to feature locally-made and readily available furniture pieces. “We didn’t have time in spades for the furniture selection component,” Simone says. “That didn’t mean we had to compromise – just be resourceful.”
Building on friendship, respect and a keen eye for bespoke design has marked a successful collaboration between homeowner and landscape architect Nathan Burkett, Webster Architecture & Interiors, and stylist Simone Haag. They’ve articulated a family beach house that flows effortlessly from the interiors to the welcoming outdoor spaces and striking black-clad exterior.