Harris isn’t new to construction, with more than two decades of experience in building custom homes. He also isn’t new to the region, bringing local knowledge to each project across the Bass Coast and South Gippsland. The Harris Build team takes great care in crafting homes that reflect the needs of each homeowner, taking on a limited number of projects to ensure personalised service. Harris would go on to explain that the intentional choice of limited projects allows for the “leadership team to remain closely involved throughout every stage of the build.” The Harris Build team has a focus on clear communication throughout the duration of the build, with a strong “commitment to making the journey as rewarding as the finished result.”

THE COASTAL EDIT

Living on the coast brings an environment surrounded by native flora, fauna and breathtaking landscapes. Often, modern coastal homes make use of restrained, muted colour palettes, texture is highlighted and natural materials are heavily incorporated throughout the home.
Harris explains that now, “there’s a growing focus on creating character through material selection, with sustainable and durable finishes that sit comfortably in the coastal landscape.”
Natural materials often play an important role in shaping the design direction of a home. Organic shape, texture and structure “can influence key decisions around form, orientation, and how a building sits within its landscape.”

As new homes are built in the region, Harris and his team haven’t noticed any significant changes in trend, but he shares that there is a growing preference for “softer, more earthy tones that reflect the surrounding coastal and landscape setting.”

With a cohesive façade and interior featuring the earthy palette of charcoal, khaki and ivory, the peaceful atmosphere is expertly crafted.
With the sound of waves crashing in the distance, tranquillity is already at the heart of modern home design along the coast.

“The overall [design] direction is towards homes that are simple, efficient and well-resolved, while still feeling warm, natural and connected to their environment,” said Harris.

The outcome of taking the regional setting into consideration throughout the planning and building stage means that each project results in a home that is “highly functional and tailored to the way our clients live,” said Harris.

SUSTAINABILITY MADE SIMPLE

Harris Build “prioritise energy-efficient construction methods, high-performance insulation, and advanced glazing to reduce heat loss and improve overall thermal comfort throughout the year,” he said.

Through close collaboration with homeowners, architects and designers, the Harris Build team delivers custom homes that are functional and beautiful.

“Sustainability is integrated through a combination of thoughtful design and carefully selected building systems and materials,” he said.

When precisely and thoughtfully incorporated, sustainability makes a world of difference within the home. Design choices such as “passive solar design principles are considered early in the process,” Harris explains, as “careful orientation and window placement [is] used to maximise natural light and reduce reliance on artificial heating and cooling,” throughout his builds.

With such elements integrated from the initial planning stage, the space takes a considered, sustainable approach at every step of the building journey. “We [Harris Build] favour materials that are responsibly sourced, durable and designed to stand the test of time, reducing the need for replacement while supporting healthier living environments,” he said.

Balancing purpose, function and lifestyle, the team understands the entire lifecycle of the material, “from production through to end use.” Throughout each new project, Harris aims to craft thoughtfully designed, beautiful homes that will last for generations to come.

GROUNDED IN DESIGN

Trends are cyclical with colour, texture and aesthetics throughout both the interior and exterior of the home and they are constantly evolving. Timeless design means using the right materials and building with intention.

“When thoughtfully incorporated into a home, natural materials contribute to a richer architectural outcome, enhancing both the character and longevity of the built environment.”

“Natural materials bring a depth, warmth, and authenticity to a home that is difficult to replicate with manufactured alternatives,” explained Harris, going on to say that materials such as “rammed earth, timber cladding and natural stone not only create a strong connection to the surrounding landscape, but also offer practical performance benefits,” Harris said.

The benefits of utilising natural materials include indoor temperature regulation through rammed earth by its thermal mass, while timber and stone provide durability along with aesthetic appeal. Harris would explain that the advantage of working with materials such as rammed earth, timber cladding or stone in these new homes are “products that contribute to the [homes] longevity.”

As coastal homes shift into prioritising practicality, visuals and functionality, emphasis is placed heavily on how the home responds to its surroundings.

“The coastal context plays an important role in every decision we [Harris Build] make[s], from orientation and natural light to the selection of durable, site-appropriate materials.”