Greybox . South West Rocks

A coastal experiment in living and design.

Greybox is an innovative architectural experiment nestled in the coastal town of South-West Rocks, Australia. This distinctive residence reimagines the traditional verandah homestead by turning it inside out, merging elements of a beachside motel, a tractor shed, and a cloistered abbey into a cohesive living space. The site, strategically located halfway between Sydney and Melbourne, presents both suburban and coastal characteristics, offering a unique backdrop for this modest housing experiment.

The design of Greybox is a response to the constraints of its site, which is bordered by various limitations including neighboring structures, bushfire setbacks, and easements. These challenges, however, have been transformed into opportunities for creativity and affordability, allowing the house to serve as a holiday retreat that can be rented out for short stays, thus enabling more people to experience its unique charm.

Adjacent to a vital bush reserve, the property has been thoughtfully landscaped with endemic species, enhancing the local ecosystem and providing a habitat for native wildlife. Collaborating with Emily Simpson Landscape Architect and local First Nations suppliers, the design integrates greenery that wraps around the house, extending the green corridor into the urban environment.

The architecture promotes an outdoor lifestyle, with a layout that consists of separate rooms connected by a three-sided verandah that encircles a central courtyard. This configuration eliminates internal corridors, encouraging residents to transition between spaces outdoors. Each room is designed with windows that allow for cross-ventilation, enhancing the connection to the natural environment. The living spaces, including the kitchen and dining areas, are strategically positioned to maximize comfort and interaction with the surrounding landscape.

From the street, Greybox presents a modest facade, punctuated only by a cheerful yellow awning. The materials used in its construction are locally sourced, featuring a lightweight frame clad entirely in metal sheet, which serves as a backdrop for the evolving garden and acts as a buffer to the street.

Greybox stands as a testament to modern living, seamlessly blending architecture with nature while providing a unique holiday experience.

Design Highlights

• Innovative layout with separate rooms connected by outdoor spaces

• Integration of endemic landscaping to enhance local biodiversity

• Use of locally sourced materials for construction

• Emphasis on outdoor living and natural ventilation

• Modest facade with playful elements like a yellow awning

Key Facts