Marcus Break; a Modern Take on the Classic Beach House

When you picture a beach shack, you might envision a home close to the coastline with a simple, functional design, large, open spaces, and a relaxed atmosphere. Marcus Break perfectly embodies this image but with a modern twist. The Sunshine Coast home is an incredible mix of a humble beach house with striking architecture. Its sleek design, functional features, and luxurious interiors make it an eye-catching beach house we’re excited to tour. So, come with us as we delve into the details with the award-winning Zauss House and explore the standout features that make Marcus Break.

The brief from the clients was to create a “modern, natural beach shack”. They loved the idea of creating a space complete with organic curves, concrete finishes, neutral tones, and lush greenery. Plus, they wanted to maximise the floor level heights to capture the stunning ocean views. With this vision in mind for both the aesthetics and design, Zauss House worked to develop an abode that would tick all the boxes, while suiting the coastal location. This meant every aspect had to be considered, from ensuring the materials used were durable against the harsher weather conditions, to creating a striking design that wouldn’t overwhelm the area.

Upon arriving at Marcus Break, it’s evident that Zauss House has perfectly achieved the intent behind the brief. The home features a jaw-dropping façade which is impactful, yet laidback and cool. The strong curved design mixed with the smooth concrete and floor-to-ceiling glass doors immediately catches your eye, setting the tone for what’s to come inside.

The front entrance greets you with polished concrete floors that weave throughout the house, perfectly balanced by the continuation of curves found subtly in the structure, finishes, and furniture. A large void and glass louvres let sunlight and the fresh sea breeze in, which circulates throughout the home. The decor is minimal, but inviting, with pops of soft, warm-toned colours and a stunning neutral palette.

The neutral palette is just one of the many ways that Marcus Break creates that indoor-outdoor connection of a classic beach shack. Whether it's through the inclusion of planters throughout the home, the natural finishes, like the tumbled natural limestone wall found in the bathroom, or how the open-plan living spaces open out onto the balcony through oversized doors. Each element plays a distinctive role in achieving this connection that truly makes Marcus Break so breathtaking.  

We asked Zauss House what their favourite feature of Marcus Break was, to which they named a few standout elements and we agreed with all of them. One impressive aspect that we haven’t yet mentioned is the brick columns. These grand features perfectly combine functionality and aesthetics, working as a visually grounding way of supporting the structure. Balancing soft tones with an abundance of texture, these brick columns are an addition that continues to enhance all the best parts of the coastal home. 

Feeling inspired by Marcus Break? Begin creating your dream modern beach shack using our mood board tool.