Seal Rocks: A Weekend at Fishcakes

Originally published at: Domain
Column: Australia's iconic coastal homes
Photography: Pauline Morrissey

Set above the sand dunes of the small coastal enclave of Seal Rocks, Fishcakes honours the humble beginnings of the classic Australian beach house, stirring the nostalgic longing for a holiday home by the sea.

Originally built in 1997 as a humble two-bedroom fibro shack with one fish smoker and eight toilets, of which only one worked, Fishcakes has since been redesigned by award-winning architects Rachael Bourne and Shane Blue of Bourne Blue Architecture. They have given new life to the structure, while retaining much of its original charm.

Being one of just a handful of homes overlooking the white sand cove of Seal Rocks, Fishcakes has been designed to take full advantage of its picturesque position, featuring seafront apex windows complete with a well-positioned daybed – a perfect spot for reading, watching sunsets, or taking an afternoon nap.

The property also features an open-plan living and kitchen area, an indoor-outdoor flow which is maintained via garage-style glass doors, and a wind-protected central courtyard that connects the original house with three pavilion bedrooms.

What’s more, Fishcakes’ unique elevated position means there are no signs of the main road, and no overlooking neighbours either.