Jan Juc
Jan Juc has become a popular destination for those wanting a more relaxed living environment while still benefiting from being close to Melbourne. And rather than simple beach shacks, many are dreaming of an expansive house that will be their ‘forever’ home. For RUBI Architects, a vacant block of land in a new subdivision, offered this opportunity – with a generous site of 4,000 square metres and the potential for views of the ocean from the top of the hill.
Designed for a couple with two young children, the brief included maximising the views over Bass Straight (the Jan Juc beach is only a few blocks away) as well creating distinct zones for parents and children – including a rumpus room as well as a separate formal lounge, generous open plan kitchen and living areas, and four bedrooms. Part of the brief was for a protected outdoor area with a pool and spa. This scheme therefore included a generous parent’s retreat on the first floor with the main bedroom, walk-in dressing area and ensuite along with a secondary office (there’s also another office at ground level).
Constructed in brick, steel and glass, there’s a sense of transparency through the main living areas (while still addressing privacy) that makes this house feel connected to the landscape and the generous outdoor amenities. And unlike some large homes that ‘announce’ themselves to the street, access to this home has been carefully articulated past the driveway/garage to a dramatic entry foyer with a ‘floating’ glazed roof. And from the front door, one can see the swimming pool directly beyond that extends one’s sight lines to the verdant surrounds.
