Bronte Beach House

Acacia was commissioned to design and manufacture a suite of fixed glass and louvre windows, cavity slide doors, and large multi-slider door units, all crafted in New Guinea Rosewood and primed for a painted finish. The most impressive of these was the corner multi-slider door for the main bedroom suite, located on the top level of the build. In addition, four arched-top panel doors were crafted in Flooded Gum and clad with Cedar shiplap boards. The aim was to maximise ocean views while ensuring thermal comfort and natural ventilation throughout the home.

From a manufacturing perspective, this project presented a myriad of elements that required detailed planning and precision engineered solutions.

One such element was the frameless multi-slider corner door unit for the top-floor main bedroom suite. Frameless corner units pose several challenges, particularly in terms of precise tolerances, robust corner connections, and location specific factors such as wind - especially in such an exposed coastal environment. Achieving accurate alignment and a smooth sliding action, while maintaining structural integrity at the corners, were key considerations throughout the design and manufacturing process. The cavity sliding glazed door panels also demanded perfect alignment and effortless operation, further emphasising the importance of thorough planning and precision craftsmanship. Achieving flush thresholds for seamless indoor/outdoor connectivity posed another project-specific challenge. Without detailed planning and engineering, these thresholds can compromise effective weatherproofing and drainage.

As is often the case in densely populated, well-established areas of Sydney, especially in popular beachside suburbs, site access was a challenge. Limited parking, restricted side access and an extremely steep site, combined with the physical size and significant weight of the double-glazed units, created a number of logistical hurdles that had to be overcome.

Planning and communication were integral to the success of this project. The design and production challenges for Bronte Beach House were addressed through close collaboration with the client, drawing on Acacia’s specialised knowledge, detailed planning and precision edge manufacturing capabilities to realise the project’s vision.

Site challenges were mitigated by dividing production into three stages to align with key building milestones. Cranes were used to assist in the delivery and installation of each completed stage.

Despite the considerable manufacturing and logistical challenges, including the complexities of frameless corner units and limited site access, the project was delivered with an exceptional level of craftsmanship and attention to detail. Ultimately, it stands as a testament to innovative design collaboration, resulting in a striking coastal residence that is both aesthetically refined and robust enough to withstand the demands of its unique location.

Acacia’s bespoke timber windows and doors played a vital role in realising the client’s vision. The precision engineered multi-slider corner door unit in the main bedroom suite serves as a dramatic centrepiece. Alongside the sliding door units on the lower levels, these features provide uninterrupted panoramic views of Bronte Beach and promote the seamless indoor/outdoor lifestyle synonymous with the Australian coast. Large, fixed pane windows bring in abundant natural light and frame easterly views, while double glazing has been employed to ensure thermal comfort throughout the home. Louvre windows further enhance passive cooling and ventilation across all five levels.