Beaumaris Modern 2

In reality, the first Beaumaris Modern book, featuring Mid Century Modern houses of Beaumaris just scraped the surface of what was out there. And, fortunately, in the past few years many more of these unique architect-designed houses have been discovered - thankfully surviving the developer’s wrecking ball.

The houses in Beaumaris are often modest, hiding behind Tea Tree filled gardens and only found by word-of-mouth. In other instances, the authors have patiently waited for the enthusiastic owners to complete their restoration or renovation which then made them more suitable for photography.

Book Two features a range of these freshly discovered houses, some restored and others renovated by a contemporary architect - one in particular has been owned by the one family for almost 70 years.

Like the first book, the photography by two of Australia’s leading architectural photographers, Derek Swalwell and Jack Shelton, capture the essence of these house with beautifully composed interior and exterior images.

Biographies of the architects have been carefully researched by heritage architect, Simon Reeves, who manages to unearth previously undisclosed details about each architect.

Fiona Austin has written the stories about the houses from both research and interviews with current and previous owners. The stories range from how owners rescued the house, to some engaging a contemporary architect to develop a sympathetic renovation. Also included are details on the interiors, furniture and gardens.

So, plenty to read, absorb and inspire. With floor plans to assist in visualising the layout of each house in addition to the visual delight of the photography.