Portsea Custom Home Designed for Generational Living

Set within one of Portsea’s most tightly held and prestigious cul-de-sacs, this substantial coastal estate draws on traditional architecture, thoughtfully adapted for contemporary, multi-generational living. Designed by Akehurst Owen Cimino, the 850sqm custom residence occupies an expansive 3,047sqm allotment, where scale, proportion and material integrity have been carefully calibrated to suit both the coastal setting and the enduring nature of the architecture itself.

The property has been designed as a family compound rather than a single dwelling, expressed through two architecturally distinct pavilions centred around a stunning landscape of beautifully manicured gardens and a 15 metre swimming pool. This composition allows the home to function as a cohesive whole while providing a high degree of privacy and independence for extended family and guests. It is a layout that designed for enduring functionality, offering spaces that can evolve with the changing needs of its occupants over time.

The principal residence forms the heart of the estate. Here, generous living and dining spaces are anchored by a fully appointed chef’s kitchen complete with butler’s pantry, perfectly designed for both everyday use and large scale entertaining. A traditional wood-burning reinforcing the home’s connection to coastal residences while remaining grounded in contemporary spatial planning.

Two generous master suites are also incorporated within the main residence positioned to provide private retreat-like accommodation, while a lower-level lounge, complete with bar and wine cellar, adds additional space for all to come together in front of a cosy gas-log fireplace.

Indoor living extends seamlessly to the outdoors via a stone terrace designed for year-round use. An integrated barbecue, pizza oven and open fire create an environment that promotes elegant entertaining without compromising the architectural language of the home. These external spaces are not treated as secondary additions but as integral components of the overall design strategy.

Across the pool, the secondary residence provides substantial guest accommodation, comprising three bedrooms, two bathrooms and a refined living space with gas log fire. A lower-level rumpus room and secure basement parking for multiple vehicles reinforce its independence from the main house, while still maintaining a strong visual and spatial relationship across the landscaped courtyard.

Material selection plays a defining role throughout the project. Timber shingle cladding, locally sourced stone and copper detailing establish a tactile palette that will weather gracefully over time. Internally, quality hardwood flooring ensures timeless appeal and hydronic heating enables the home to be enjoyed year round, as does the heated, self-cleaning saltwater pool  – both a reflection of the project’s emphasis on longevity and ease of use rather than a short-term statement.

The landscape design by Robert Boden brings structure and softness in equal measure. Manicured hedging, stone-paved terraces and mature planting define outdoor rooms across the site, from the pool surrounds to expansive lawns and a championship Mod Grass tennis court.

Built by Pitman Builds, with interior furnishing by Adrian Cannata, the project represents a highly resolved collaboration between architecture, construction, interiors and landscape. It is a home grounded in proportion, material honesty and thoughtful planning. This is a stunning coastal estate designed not as a moment, but as a long-term family legacy within one of Victoria’s most coveted residential enclaves.

A 17 Madden Grove, Richmond VIC 3121
P 03 9428 1231
E studio@akehurstowencimino.com
W akehurstowencimino.com