Charlotte
This project brief called for the design of a modern, Palm Springs inspired, resort style family home that would harmoniously blend into a quiet suburban street in the tightly held suburb of Grange overlooking the picturesque Charles Sturt River and Kirkcaldy Reserve, an area alive with native birdlife. The home was designed to accommodate a broad spectrum of lifestyles, from busy professionals and large families to downsizing retirees, with a strong emphasis on entertaining and relaxation.
The architectural expression of the home features soft, organic curves finished in a refined micro-cement render. The landscape design integrates honed exposed aggregate paths surrounding a heated pool, a custom western red cedar sauna with Tylo heater, and a tranquil outdoor retreat complete with a built-in daybed and bench seating wrapped in Victorian oak hardwood cladding. The generous alfresco area includes a built-in BBQ, sink, bar fridge, storage, and has a direct servery connection to the kitchen enhancing its functionality for hosting and casual outdoor dining.
Inside, the home exudes spaciousness and elegance. 3-metre-high ceilings on the ground floor and 2.7 metres upstairs are enhanced with luxurious five-step plaster cornices, and under the skin of the walls, the house has been completely framed using LVL engineered timber for added strength and straightness. The expansive open plan layout is filled with natural light thanks to strategic placement of skylights and generously sized windows. The kitchen is equipped with integrated Miele appliances, natural stone benchtops and splashbacks and features a large open pantry. The adjoining dining and living areas include an elegant and inviting bar with a Vintec beverage centre, all seamlessly tied together with light oak timber flooring and a cohesive palette of American white oak and 2pac cabinetry, which continues throughout the home.
A striking open steel spine staircase with solid American white oak treads, glass balustrading and a unique custom oval American white oak handrail leads to the upper level, where an expansive second living area opens to a balcony overlooking the creek and reserve. This level also includes a kitchenette with built-in bar fridge, a spacious open study, three bedrooms (one with walk-in robe), a fully tiled main bathroom, separate powder room and WC, and ample linen storage.
The master suite, located on the ground floor, offers privacy and luxury with a generous walk-in robe, a fully tiled ensuite with underfloor heating, and direct access to a secluded courtyard with tropical planting. All bedrooms feature 100% wool carpets and ceiling fans for added comfort.
Climate control is handled by an Actron Air Advance reverse-cycle system with multi-zone control, complemented by an Escea gas fireplace in the main living area. Both the ensuite and upstairs bathroom include underfloor heating for year-round comfort. Additional features include an integrated intercom and security alarm system, a fully ducted vacuum with a convenient kicker sweeper in the pantry, and pre-wiring for a solar system and networking cable throughout.
The epoxy-coated, double garage offers extensive storage via built-in sliding cupboards, a bench and a utility sink. Externally, the tropical-inspired gardens are anchored by a mature 6-metre Canary Island Date Palm and designed for low maintenance, featuring automated irrigation and integrated garden lighting.
This residence exemplifies refined luxury, functional family living, and seamless indoor-outdoor integration, delivering a calm, inviting sanctuary suited to a range of modern lifestyles.
