Dove House | Clinton Cole

Poised between land, sea and sky, Dove House overlooks a clifftop cemetery buffeted by winds from three directions. The home’s pleasing circular geometry mirrors the finials atop the marble headstones, using curved roof cutouts and twin spiral staircases to create a celestial balance and lightness.

To address the challenges of the exposed site, CplusC Architects + Builders designed a storm-proof double-sided home that’s open yet protected from the elements. Living areas are elevated to the first floor to maximise light and views. With no back or front yard – just a low-profile, unfenced native garden at the entrance – the home welcomes its surroundings.

At the heart of the home is a ground-level courtyard garden that sheds dappled light into bedrooms. Upstairs, the indoor and outdoor living areas bask in light with spectacular coastal views in two directions. Above the integrated pool, a circular roof cutout opens to the heavens. As the sun travels across the sky, this celestial opening casts playful light forms onto swimmers and into the home.

Connected by outdoor walkways and two spiral staircases, the living areas and pool are skilfully protected by screens and adjustable glazing to shield from wind and rain so they’re comfortable year round. A small glazed office pod provides a meditative place to work with stunning ocean views.

The sustainable low-maintenance home features a photovoltaic system, rainwater tanks for garden and house use, and is designed using passive design principles to reduce reliance on airconditioning.