Bangalay Residences, nestled in the coastal suburb of Queenscliff, NSW, finds its place within a challenging environment—a narrow infill site bordered by towering four-story brick apartments, with additional units tucked at the rear. The site’s constraints, alongside the commanding presence of a mature bangalay tree and the scale of neighboring buildings, demanded a design that not only maximized space but also seamlessly blended with its urban surroundings. Balancing internal planning needs with external urban conditions necessitated a careful interplay between volumetric spaces and the surrounding envelope.
© Simon Whitbread
To address these challenges, innovative strategies were deployed to ensure both internal functionality and external aesthetics were met. The building’s facade, meticulously crafted, serves as a testament to this approach. Internally splayed windows, thoughtfully integrated, offer tantalizing glimpses of the surrounding vistas, while meticulously arranged windows maintain visual coherence between the neighboring buildings. Moreover, specially designed sliding screens embellish both the street-facing and rear facades, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the architectural composition.
© Simon Whitbread
Inspired by the breathtaking coastal setting, the architectural language of Bangalay Residences draws upon the dynamic forms and elements of the ocean. Angular motifs echo the fluidity and energy of breaking waves, while layered sliding screens emulate the rhythmic motion of waves rolling onto shore. The choice of materials—concrete, stone, and sand-colored bricks—pays homage to the enduring strength and rugged beauty of coastal rock formations. Gold metal accents add warmth and radiance, evoking the sun’s glow. Furthermore, the incorporation of sand-colored bricks honors the nearby beach and surrounding brick architecture, seamlessly integrating the residence with its natural and built environment.
© Simon Whitbread
In essence, Bangalay Residences serves as a testament to innovative design solutions that seamlessly merge with its coastal surroundings. By harmonizing with the landscape and embracing its coastal inspiration, it creates a unique and harmonious living environment that celebrates the beauty of its coastal context.
Project Info
Architects: A Vela Unvelum Architecture & Interiors
Country: Australia, Queenscliff
Area: 800 m²
Year: 2023
Photographs: Simon Whitbread
Surveying: True North Survey Group
Lead Architect: Ross Serrano
Geotechnical Engineering: Crozier Geotechnical Consultants
Structural Engineering: Dincel & Associates
Civil Engineering: RTS Civil
Traffic Engineering: Transport and Traffic Planning Associates
Landscape Design: Banksia Design Group
Acoustic Engineering: Day Design
Services Engineering: VOS Group
Madeline Brooks is a Projects Editor at Arch2O, where she has been shaping and refining architectural content since March 2024. With over a decade of experience in editorial work, she has curated, revised, and published an array of projects covering architecture, urbanism, and public space design. A graduate of the Harvard University Graduate School of Design, Madeline brings a strong academic foundation and a discerning editorial eye to each piece she oversees. Since joining Arch2O, she has played a pivotal role in shaping the platform’s editorial direction, with a focus on sustainability, social relevance, and cutting-edge design. Madeline excels at translating complex architectural ideas into clear, engaging stories that resonate with both industry professionals and general readers. She works closely with architects, designers, and global contributors to ensure every project is presented with clarity, depth, and compelling visual narrative. Her editorial leadership continues to elevate Arch2O’s role in global architectural dialogue.