Merricks North House – Mornington Peninsula, Victoria, Australia 🇦🇺

Merricks House, designed by Wood Marsh Architecture, is a sculptural retreat that redefines coastal luxury with a harmonious blend of contemporary minimalism and sustainability set amidst rolling vineyards and overlooking Port Phillip Bay in Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula. Approached via a winding drive through an established vineyard, the property is anchored by two towering, curved rammed-earth walls that form a striking central spine. This bold architectural feature connects six bedrooms, a series of terraces, and expansive communal spaces, ensuring flexibility for both intimate gatherings and larger family stays. Frameless windows slice through the walls, offering curated glimpses of the ocean to the south and lush vineyards to the north, while the charcoal and off-white exteriors echo the sun-bleached tones of the rugged Australian environment.

Name: Merricks House
Bedrooms: 6
Bathrooms: 5
Size: 5,000 + sq. ft.
Lot: 82 + acres
Built: 2010

Located on the Mornington Peninsula in Victoria, Australia, Merricks House by Wood Marsh Architects is a striking example of contemporary minimalism designed to harmonize with its environment. Approached via a winding drive through an established vineyard, the home reveals itself discreetly from behind a tall hedge, where two curved rammed-earth walls form the architectural core. These walls create a sheltered central corridor, connecting six bedrooms, communal living areas, and a series of terraces and courtyards that respond to the surrounding coastal landscape. Frameless windows are carefully positioned to frame sweeping views of the ocean, vines, and rolling hills, while the corridor’s gently sloping path creates an interplay of light and shadow, enhancing the home’s dramatic yet understated aesthetic.

The design emphasizes both functionality and durability, making it ideal for its rugged Australian setting. A restrained palette of bold charcoal, off-white, and natural textures echo the sun-bleached earth and burnt timbers of the region, with warm, neutral interiors providing the perfect backdrop for the owner’s art collection. The layout ensures flexibility, with discreet bedroom wings for privacy and expansive communal areas, including a pool terrace, that can adapt to varying levels of occupancy. Sustainability is seamlessly integrated, with the home relying exclusively on rainwater harvesting, cross-ventilation, and low-energy materials such as rammed earth for natural insulation, ensuring minimal environmental impact and long-term resilience.

Merricks House balances its sculptural presence with practical design, offering a retreat that feels both grounded and innovative. The home’s integration of courtyards and terraces allows for year-round outdoor living, even in the often-harsh coastal climate, while the curated landscaping enhances views and privacy. Its meticulous attention to detail, seen in the seamless connection of structural elements, frameless glazing, and carefully crafted materiality, cements its place as a timeless architectural achievement. Designed with longevity in mind, this residence represents a thoughtful response to the land, combining luxury, sustainability, and a profound connection to the Australian landscape.