Hawley Esplanade

‘The Shack’: Rebuilding a coastal icon

Perfectly positioned on one of Tasmania’s most celebrated stretches of coastline, The Shack at Hawley Esplanade is definitely not your ordinary ‘shack’. Built by Turner Plus in collaboration with S. Group, this knock-down rebuild honours the spirit of the original beach shack while transforming it into a light-filled, energy-efficient home built for modern coastal living.

Originally a humble 1960s shack lined with asbestos and starved of sunlight, the site came with its challenges. The owners wanted a home that captured the raw beauty of Hawley Beach and those tree-framed views stretching over the ocean to the national park beyond; one that made the most of the sun, with light pouring into every space. At the same time, it needed to feel unpretentious and relaxed - a place where two people could live comfortably day-to-day but still welcome family and friends with ease.

Turner Plus helped bring this vision to life with considered, efficient construction and their signature collaborative approach. Designed to sit modestly in its surroundings, the home features a mix of James Hardie™ Fine Texture and Scyon Axon™ claddings for a clean, contemporary finish that still nods to its laid-back roots. Across two levels and within a tight 135m² footprint, the home surprisingly fits four bedrooms, three bathrooms, and generous open living areas – thanks to clever planning and a design that never wastes a moment of space or sunlight.

A dramatic double-height void at the front of the home pulls natural light deep into both levels, creating a sense of volume and openness uncommon for a footprint this size. True to the spirit of the original shack, there’s no formal entry, just a seamless flow into the home’s heart. Entertaining is easy and intuitive, with an eastern deck perfect for morning coffee and a western BBQ area that soaks up the afternoon sun.

For Turner Plus, this project was built on trust, collaboration, and shared vision. Working closely with S. Group and the clients, the team approached each stage with care and craftsmanship –ensuring the home not only met the brief but exceeded it.

The result is a modern-day shack that feels grounded, generous, and entirely at home in its iconic surroundings. A coastal sanctuary that balances function with soul, welcoming in the light, the views, and all the people who make it special.