Caught in a rip at Brighton Beach

Surf lifesaving is cool. And the guys (and girls) need all the tools to continue their important job. So too can it be said for the need of a new, updated and modern facility. Brighton Beach is relatively unspoilt by mass infrastructure and development unlike its near neighbour, Glenelg.

But is the tide turning?...

Enter the modern beach shack! Galvanised iron, sweeping veranda, pole stilts and funky retro colours. Pretty picture, but lets take a closer look...


The curved profile does minimise the weight of the structure and this is its best side viewed from the palm fringed playground nearby. But the large sail-like roof is way too tall relative to its surrounds. At this height it serves no real purpose aesthetically or physically except to house the air conditioning ducts.


Not the best side! It is at this southern end that we can see just how intrusive the structure is on street level and the 'blunted' wall face makes no attempt to integrate with the design. It's just a solid mass! And of course the residents on this side have lost their valuable sunset view over the beach, -forever! Quite confusing really? Or not so, it is more shed than shack.