There are houses of considerable quality, and then there are those rare residences that possess an altogether more elusive distinction. Alba House belongs firmly to the latter.
Set moments from the shoreline within one of Mount Eliza's most coveted seaside enclaves, this newly completed architectural residence is an exceptionally resolved expression of contemporary coastal living. Developed by Slate Projects and conceived by award-winning Mason Bright Architects, Alba House has been approached with the rigour of a significant architectural commission: assured in its proportions, exacting in its materiality and entirely uninterested in the ordinary.
Its sweeping curved frontage establishes an immediate sense of arrival. Sculptural rather than merely structural, the architecture draws upon the fluidity of the coastline, with softened forms moving throughout the residence in an elegant response to its prominent corner position. The effect is one of remarkable composure - substantial, yet never ostentatious; contemporary, without being beholden to fashion.
Towering expanses of full-height glazing frame Port Phillip Bay and bring an extraordinary quality of natural light to interiors distinguished by material restraint and exceptional craftsmanship. European oak flooring sits alongside Haven flamed limestone, Japanese Otsumigaki plaster, reeded glass and brushed nickel fittings, while limestone crazy paving extends through the bathrooms, alfresco terrace and swimming pool surrounds. Bespoke joinery, carefully commissioned lighting and an exacting level of detailing give the residence a quiet richness that reveals itself gradually rather than demanding attention.
The kitchen is appropriately formidable. Patagonia quartzite forms its sculptural centrepiece, with sweeping curved edges continuing the architectural language of the house. A comprehensive Gaggenau suite incorporates cooktop, oven, combi-steam oven and fully integrated dishwasher, accompanied by integrated refrigeration and a substantial walk-in pantry with a second dishwasher. It is a kitchen designed as much for serious entertaining as for the pleasure of everyday ritual.
The principal living and dining domain is generous in scale and beautifully disciplined in execution. A contemporary fireplace provides an understated focal point, while walls of glass dissolve the distinction between the interiors, landscaped gardens, heated swimming pool and alfresco terrace beyond.
The latter has been conceived less as an outdoor entertaining area than as an extension of the residence itself. A fully appointed kitchen with barbecue and bar fridge is accompanied by overhead heating, ceiling fan and integrated surround sound, allowing the space to function with equal ease for an intimate summer dinner or considerably more ambitious entertaining. A second lounge, drawing light from both northern and southern garden aspects, offers a quieter and more contemplative counterpoint.
The primary suite is deliberately indulgent. Bespoke, full-height dressing room cabinetry precedes an ensuite of almost ceremonial proportion, where heated floors, a freestanding bath and independently positioned twin G-Lux marble vanities create the atmosphere of a particularly accomplished private hotel.
Upstairs, a light-filled landing with views across the bay provides an elegant study or reading retreat. Three further bedrooms each enjoy water outlooks, including a guest suite with walk-in robe and private ensuite, while the family bathroom is distinguished by a dramatic skylight positioned above its sculptural twin vanity.
Behind automated gates, the practicalities have been resolved with the same discretion as the architecture. Keyless entry, direct internal access from the double garage, a rear roller door, reverse-cycle heating, refrigerated cooling, a 10kW solar system and comprehensive camera security are seamlessly incorporated rather than conspicuously displayed.
The address places Kunyung Primary School, Peninsula Grammar, Mount Eliza Secondary College, the village and the shoreline within effortless reach, yet Alba House feels distinctly removed from the everyday.
This is not coastal luxury interpreted through the usual vocabulary of excess. It is something considerably more sophisticated: architecture with confidence, materials with provenance and spaces of genuine consequence.
Alba House is a residence for those who understand the distinction.
All measurements for this listing are indicative only
Disclaimer: OBrien Real Estate has prepared this information in good faith based on information provided by third parties and has taken reasonable care to ensure its accuracy. However, OBrien Real Estate cannot guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the information. Prospective purchasers and renters should make their own enquiries to verify the information contained herein. Certain images may have been digitally enhanced or virtually styled for presentation purposes.
