15 of Australia's most incredible beach houses

This article on Australians most incredible beach houses was oriiginally published by Darcy Wilson from BUILD on 18 July 2013

It's no surprise that we're so crazy about the beach here in Australia - we're surrounded by beautiful oceans on every side, and in most places our weather's absolutely ideal for it.

This week we've compiled a list of 15 of the best beach houses in Australia - for no other reason than to gape at them in envy and awe...

1. Solis

Design: Renato D'Ettorre Architects
Photos: Mads Mogensen

This unbelievable house in the Whitsundays is made from concrete and travertine, to complement the tropical Queensland heat and rain.

2. Klein Bottle House

Design: McBride Charles Ryan
Photos: John Gollings

Inspired by the brain-bending Klein Bottle, this incredibly dramatic beach house is based in Rye, on the Mornington Peninsula in Victoria.

3. Holman House

Design: Durbach Block Jaggers
Photos: Peter Bennetts, Brett Boardman, Anthony Browell

Perched confidently on the edge of a 70 metre cliff at Dover Heights, just outside of Sydney. Check out that view...

4. Alinghi Residence

Design: Grose Bradley BVN with LGI Architects
Photos: John Gollings

Another incredibly serene, sun-drenched concrete house in Queensland - this one's based in Rocky Point.

This beautiful house on the Bouddi Peninsula was actually pretty badly fire damaged a while ago, but we had a chat with the owners and they say it's currently being rebuilt. If you know who designed the house (or took these fantastic photos) please let us know.

6. Azuris

Design: Renato D'Ettorre Architects
Photos: Francesca Giovanelli

Another sprawling, open, ridiculously photogenic and beautifully built Hamilton Island (Queensland) retreat.

7. West Head House

Design: Peter Stuchbury Architects
Photos: Michael Nicholson

Oozing character and warmth from every board and beam, this fantastic home was built by the architect's own hand, and is situated among the trees in Clareville Beach, NSW.

8. Fairhaven Pole House

Design: Frank Dixon
Photos: Matt Lord (via Australian Traveller)

This home is an iconic landmark down the Great Ocean Road in Fairhaven, Victoria. It's actually due to be knocked down pretty soon - although we're told it's going to be replaced by another equally likeable house on a pole.

9. Cliff Face House

Design: Fergus Scott Architects and Peter Stuchbury Architects
Photos: Michael Nicholson

Another incredible house built on the side of a cliff - but this Palm Beach, NSW house actually incorporates the cliff face into the interior of the house as a wall.