NOEL MURPHY discovers an architectural masterpiece embedded into the rolling green countryside of the Otway Ranges at Johanna.
IT TAKES a certain confidence to build a house facing out to the extremes of the Southern Ocean without worrying about window coverings.
Wild winds capable of propelling sailing ships clean across the Indian Ocean speak volumes for a force which, combined with often-chilly temperatures and the dampest climes in Victoria, could make life, well, let’s just say a little uncomfortable.
But the beauty of the Southern Ocean and the verdant patchwork carpet of the Otway Ranges hinterland are glorious features any self-respecting architect wouldn’t let escape his attention.
Geelong West’s Mark Gratwick Architects did just that with Johanna Beach House, harnessing the elements and rugged natural aesthetics with a canny mix of design, engineering, materials.
The result –a geometric glass, stone and timber structure reaching skyward while opening to the worlds – is a terrific merging of built and natural environments.
For the full story, pick up a copy of the latest Geelong Coast Magazine – in newsagents now.
