Embedded in the cliff edge of Flinders, a peninsula town south-east of Melbourne, Tidal Arc House confidently departs from expectations of the Australian beach house. By referencing the dark and stoic elements that comprise the shoreline rather than the expected inspiration of the ocean, the home is a lush homage to the drama of the coast. The design is entirely site specific – considering topography and outlook. Nestled into place, key spaces are deliberately oriented to champion the views beyond. Living levels compress and open out to the sky, enveloping inhabitants in the exhilarating impact of the location. Partnering with interior design firm Hecker Guthrie and stylist Simone Haag to complete the interior experience, Woods Bagot designed outward-facing areas that work in harmony with discreet and quiet spaces that feature dark, modest materials – creating a refuge tucked away from the views. Dark and textural timbers, stones, textiles and refined metals throughout reference the tones of the shore and impart a welcoming tactility. Divided into two living areas and separate bedroom suites, the 4-bedroom family home has been planned entirely around the series of segmented ceiling patterns created by beams radiating from three different origins. A play on restraint and full exposure, the opening and closing of spaces to the view creates a dynamic response to the coastal setting.