



28. THE SHARKS CLUBHOUSE
20 Heathfield Road, Coolum Beach
The Sharks Clubhouse is a compact, sustainable, and affordable residence that demonstrates how thoughtful design can help address Australia’s housing crisis. With its focus on simplicity, efficiency, and quality, it shows what’s possible when we rethink the way we build homes.
The name comes from its creators – Ray, the owner, and Adrian, the architect – who have been ocean swimming together for more than a decade.
At just 44m² of internal space plus 28m² of covered outdoor area, the home may look modest in size, but like a Tardis, it feels surprisingly spacious, comfortable, and relaxed. By comparison, the average new Australian home measures 235m².
The Sharks Clubhouse was built entirely inside the local Saltair Modular factory, a process that minimises waste, ensures cost and timeline certainty, and allows the completed home to be transported directly to site. In the future, when the block is fully developed, the home can simply be craned away and relocated.
The layout has been carefully designed to make the most of its surroundings – capturing breezes, sunlight, and leafy green outlooks. Dark interior walls create a calming atmosphere and a strong visual connection to the garden setting. Energy efficiency is front of mind, with features such as an electric on-demand hot water system.
With no land cost component and a location within walking distance of the beach and local amenities, the basic model of this home could be built for around $250,000, meeting all requirements of the National Construction Code, including energy efficiency standards.
A standout feature is the laser-cut corten steel screen at the front, referencing the local Pandanus pedunculatus. As it develops a rich, velvety rust finish, the screen provides privacy, shading from the western sun, and a striking visual element.
Ray says he’ll be perfectly happy living in the Sharks Clubhouse for the next decade or more – and it’s easy to see why.
Visit during Sunshine Coast Open House:
- Open Access: Saturday & Sunday, 9 am – 2 pm
- Limited on-site and street parking available.
- Clearly marked access route and personnel on hand to answer questions and share information.