Positioned at the end of a quiet canal on the Gold Coast, this newly designed residence blends the warmth of a modern homestead with refined contemporary coastal architecture. Created by Templo Studio, an experienced Gold Coast house designer, the home delivers a timeless yet fresh aesthetic tailored for modern family living — particularly families with teenage children.
From the outset, the brief was clear: design a home that felt classic and enduring, while embracing the relaxed elegance of Gold Coast waterfront living.
Built on an irregularly shaped waterfront site, the design required creative planning to maximise space, privacy, and orientation. Rather than viewing the block’s atypical shape as a constraint, we used it as a catalyst for innovation — shaping a layout that enhances functionality and spatial flow.
Masonry block construction was selected for its structural strength and bracing capacity, enabling expansive open-plan living zones and dramatic raked ceilings. The result is a highly functional custom-designed Gold Coast home that balances architectural impact with long-term durability.
The floor plan includes four ensuited bedrooms and two fully separate living areas, carefully positioned away from the master suite. This zoning strategy supports independence for teenagers while maintaining strong communal gathering spaces — a key principle in thoughtful family home design on the Gold Coast.
A defining feature of the residence is the internal courtyard. More than a lightwell, it forms the heart of the home — drawing natural light deep into the floor plan, improving cross-ventilation, and strengthening the indoor–outdoor connection.
Through an extensive conceptual design process, the courtyard became both a practical solution and an architectural centrepiece, reinforcing the home’s identity as a contemporary courtyard home on the Gold Coast.
Externally, the landscaping integrates seamlessly with the canal setting, enhancing privacy while complementing the home’s modern coastal palette. Outdoor spaces are designed for entertaining and relaxation, reflecting the lifestyle expectations of waterfront living.
Internally, the layout delivers a balance of separation and connection — private retreats for individual family members alongside generous open-plan areas that bring everyone together.
This canal-front residence exemplifies Templo Studio’s bespoke approach to residential architecture. It demonstrates how considered design can transform a complex site into a refined, highly liveable family home — a space defined by comfort, elegance, and enduring appeal.
