Usually box-like in appearance, the typical Lake Eildon houseboat is reimagined in Halcyon as a sculptural volume characterised by smooth lines, rounded corners and reflective textures that imbue the glass and metal structure with a sense of fluidity. Taken all together, the exterior’s architecturally-minded design gives it a calm dynamism on the water, not unlike the mythical ‘halcyon’ which the project takes its name from, namely the sea nesting bird which was said to cause the Gods to restrain the wind and waves.

When it came to the interior, the aim was to amplify the feeling of living on the water which the team achieved by embracing an open-plan layout for the ground floor communal areas in conjunction with separating all the joinery from the perimeter glazing in order to create uninterrupted views of the surroundings. In the kitchen for example, all functional elements are contained within the kitchen island, while in the living room a free-standing built-in console conceals the TV while also functioning as a bar.

A unique glazing system featuring patio doors that disappear once opened seamlessly connects the living room to an outdoor living and dining area further amplifying the visual and spatial connection with the lake. A floating staircase leads up to the four first-floor bedrooms, two of which are master suites – one at the bow offering landscape views when docked, the other at the stern offering resplendent water views. Built-in features have also been used here as seen in the bathroom’s vanity unit doubling as the bed’s headboard.

Jolson’s attention to detail extends from the design of the bespoke joinery and built-in furnishings to the material palette, most notably the selection of specialist timber floorboards that nevertheless convey the rugged texture of sawn-cut boards. Complemented by a muted colour scheme and dotted with a mix of outdoor and indoor furniture pieces, the houseboat’s interior feels as elegantly contemporary as much as in tune with its natural setting.

On the top level, an additional outdoor living space is designed to be used throughout the day thanks to a large canopy providing shade to sunlounges, daybeds and a circular built-in banquette for dining complemented by a simple linear countertop bar with kitchen facilities and a high-top bar.

When the sun sets, a wood-fired hot tub is the place to be for stargazing both during the summer and winter months, further emphasising how Halcyon is ultimately a fully-equipped modern home, albeit one that floats on the surface of a lake.