SEA ACRE

Lennox Head, NSW

In this project feature, we speak with Tess Robinson, founder of Smack Bang, who recently welcomed us into her stunning Sea Acre House in the coastal town of Lennox Head. Set on an acre near the sea, the home is a curated blend of warm neutrals, subtle elements, and unique pieces with character, striking a delicate balance between quiet confidence, harmony and contrast throughout.

Can you share a little bit about who you are, and what you do during the week?

I’m a mum to Dylan (6) and Marzy (3), a multi-disciplinary creative, a founder, a mentor, a wife, a daughter, a sister, and a lover of life. My weeks are a balancing act between the beautiful chaos of parenting and the ever-moving pieces of running a few businesses. I spend my time toggling between creative strategy, brand builds, new business ventures and school drop-offs, all while trying to carve out a bit of time for my own creative pursuits, my wellbeing, and the things that keep me feeling charged. It’s full, it’s fast, but it’s deeply fulfilling.

What inspired the vision behind Sea Acre?

It really stemmed from the way we like to live; outside, free and together. My partner is a nature guy, I’m a sun lover, and our kids are happiest with dirt under their nails. So the home had to honour that. It had to breathe. We asked our architect to design a space that dissolved the boundary between inside and out. Light, air, and flow were non-negotiables.

Why this property? What do you like about the area?

Landing on this (dream) block was a stroke of luck. I was 8.5 months pregnant, mid-reno on our South Coast home, and definitely not looking to move. But I stumbled across this listing - a full acre, steps from the ocean, with sunsets that stop you in your tracks. Within five days, we’d bought it. It just felt right. Lennox has this dreamy, low-key charm. The beaches are quiet, the community is warm, and the food and coffee scene is surprisingly great. We still spend most of our time at home, though. Early dinners with friends, kids exploring nude, picnics in the yard. It’s everything we hoped it would be.

How do you feel the lighting evokes your vision?

Light is everything. It shapes the way you move, feel, and live within a space. At Sea Acre, we wanted light to pour in, move across the walls, and evolve throughout the day. The north-facing U-shape lets the sun kiss every corner of the house. Skylights amplify that feeling. Even on grey days, the home feels warm, open, and alive.