Ferniehirst is more than just a home. Perched on the shores of Dicky Beach, Queensland, it’s a symbol of family legacy, resilience and intentional design. Crafted as a “forever home,” Ferniehirst is built to stand proudly for at least four generations, with its solid bones and elegant lines designed to withstand the trials of time and tide. This unique home serves as both a retreat and a gathering place, a haven created not only for today’s family but also for the generations who will inherit its halls and memories.
Thoughtful Design for Every Occasion
The journey began at Dicky Beach with a 1251sqm plot and an ageing structure, ready for transformation. The clients provided designer Penny del Castillo with a 25-page brief detailing their dreams: a “Michelin-star chef’s” kitchen, a dining area for 120 guests, and space for both family gatherings and private retreats. The design aimed to blend comfort, practicality, durability, and elegance. Penny recalls the guiding mantra: “Comfort and practicality over aesthetics,” though the final result is still visually striking.
Situated on an ocean-facing block, Ferniehirst had to withstand more than just the rigours of daily family life. As harsh coastal air and salty subtropical winds were a constant presence, Penny and her team at Studio del Castillo embraced resilient materials and bold, brutalist architecture to meet the environment head-on. At the same time, they softened the home’s rough exterior with serene, ocean-inspired hues and plush textures inside. From its bog oak wall panelling sourced from Ukraine to the sunlit living spaces, each detail was chosen to balance durability with warmth, creating a home that’s as inviting as it is resilient.
Versatility and Functionality for Every Occasion
The ground floor is a masterclass in versatility, capable of transforming from a cosy family space to a grand entertaining area with ease. Here, an expandable dining table stretches from 12 seats to 34, inviting large holiday gatherings and intimate family meals alike. With seven bedrooms, eight bathrooms, a sewing room, and a versatile games room, Ferniehirst feels spacious yet intimate. The layered, adaptable interiors were designed to “hold nostalgia without losing the original intent,” as Penny explains, preserving the home’s character as it ages alongside its owners.
Thoughtful Design, Inside and Out
True to its coastal surroundings, Ferniehirst’s palette reflects the sea and sky, with blue-green tones balancing the concrete foundations. The Dicky Beach home’s artwork tells a story, each piece a memento from the family’s travels, grounding their experiences in a space for new memories. As Penny says, “Every piece connects to a place of joy,” adding meaning to each room within the broader family legacy.
Every corner of Ferniehirst has been thoughtfully crafted to enhance the family’s lifestyle, down to the smallest practical details. For example, roll-up blinds keep views of Dicky Beach unobstructed while allowing the ocean breeze to flow freely, and custom-designed windows maximize both light and privacy. Outside, the family’s athletic side shines through with a 40m lap pool and an adjoining court for tennis and basketball — the perfect setting for healthy competition or a relaxed day in the sun. Moreover, the underground level offers even more, featuring a full gym, cinema, and a storeroom for surf gear, ensuring a seamless connection between the beach and home.
This residence is a masterpiece, crafted, curated and created with detail, with memories and treasured moments in mind. A place to slow down and enjoy meaningful time with loved ones, now and for many years to come.
