DESIGN ANTHOLOGY – “Memories and Meaning”

Featuring Las Palmas Byron Bay

Words by Rebecca Gross // Photography by Tom Ferguson

“Form and function are the foundations of design, but there is also a more sensitive aspect: feeling. How people feel about a house – the emotive experience of architecture – is what creates memories and meaning. Las Palmas, in the Byron Bay hinterland, is a synergy of form, function and feeling. Occupying a prime position on a few hectares of rolling hills, Las Palmas is home to Sally and Matt McGarry and their three young boys. Sally grew up in Fenner House in Canberra, designed by Robin Boyd in 1952, and wanted to imbue her new family home with the emotions she associates with the sun-filled mid-century house. ‘I have memories of playing in the yard and climbing trees, garden parties and various activities in different rooms’ she says.”

Project credits:

Architects: Duo Architects in association with Davis Architects // Contractor: ASEC Building // Landscape: Larc Landscapes & Lime Landscapes // Photography: Tom Ferguson