Sweetwater House, located in Frankston South on Bunurong Country, is a thoughtfully designed residence that balances flexibility, sustainability, and multi-generational living. Backing onto the regionally significant Narringalling (Sweetwater Creek), the home offers a unique connection to the surrounding bushland, providing a serene and immersive living experience for its maturing family occupants.

The design reflects a pared-back material palette and clean lines, resonating with the mid-century architectural context of the area, including nearby iconic works like Robin Boyd’s ‘McClunes House.’ Large windows and clear sightlines to the creek integrate the indoor and outdoor spaces, fostering a deep connection with nature and elevating the daily lives of its residents.

Constructed using prefabricated Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) from PEFC-certified plantations in Southern New South Wales, Sweetwater House embodies both ecological and personal renewal. The use of 66.8m³ of CLT sequesters 49.42 tonnes of CO2, resulting in a total negative embodied carbon emission of 32.86 tonnes, even after accounting for manufacturing energy. This mass-timber construction not only offers sustainability but also ensures cost-effectiveness and supply chain security.

The home is fully electric, powered by a next-generation AC PV system that generates more energy than the family’s daily needs. The timber-clad exterior, complemented by surrounding tree ferns and eucalypts, creates a welcoming and tranquil atmosphere. The nearby Sweetwater Creek, currently undergoing rehabilitation, forms a vital part of the local community, offering a unique natural environment that enhances the home’s design and the well-being of its residents.

Photography by Tom Blachford