This modern farmhouse in the outer Brisbane suburb of Rochedale was designed and built for the owner who had lived on the land and farmed the site for many years.
Her vision was to have a house, shed and swimming pool which would all sit in harmony together — something that would see her through her next phase of life.
To bring her vision to fruition, she turned to Smith Architects and L.A.K. Constructions. The result is an earthy, custom-designed home that suits the owner’s lifestyle to a tee, reflects her connection to the land, and boasts features and fixtures that remind her of time spent with family and friends when the property was a working farm.
The home has been positioned into the top of a rise facing out to the bushland below. It not only provides for stunning views from every room but enables the home to sit down into the land and appear as though it has always been there.
The interior layout allows for the owner to have her own private wing, complete with a spacious bedroom, ensuite, walk-in robe and study. In the middle of the house there is a dining area that
opens to both the front and back of the house. This room features a red brick floor that links it to the outdoor terrace and makes a reference to the red earth of the surrounding paddocks. The brick floor continues out onto the terrace and extends through to the entry and laundry areas. Together, the brick and timber flooring provide a lovely warm contrast throughout the home.
Equal care was given to the design of the kitchen and lounge areas. These are light and airy with exposed trusses and custom cabinetry, the latter featuring copper handles. The extensive timber detailed truss design and timber features, including the skylight well and front entry window box, were handcrafted from spotted gum which has a connection with the timber species that grow around the property. The entry window box is a feature on the front facade — one that encourages light into the home.
The pool was positioned and designed not only to allow easy access by the owner for exercise in the years ahead but so it could also be enjoyed by family members from the extended outdoor terrace. The pool’s exposed concrete shell was inspired by the old farm’s water reservoir.
The house blends seamlessly into its surroundings, looking as if it had naturally evolved in-situ. Designed to allow the owner to age in place comfortably and in style, the farmhouse is a beautiful space in which she can bunker down and enjoy the land that she has worked and lived on for more than 45 years.
L.A.K Constructions, under the guiding hand of director Luke Kruberg, specialises in high-end architectural new builds and renovations. Over the years, Luke has built a highly experienced team of carpenters and subcontractors who are as committed to providing quality craftsmanship and exceptional services as he is. During every build, Luke and the construction manager are regularly on site to ensure that the highest standards of workmanship are maintained.
In building this home, L.A.K. Constructions was sensitive to the client’s long history and connection with the land and her need to have a certain look and feel to the home. Quality workmanship was key to all the features of this home, including extensive timberwork and brickwork. The end result is refined, detailed and exhibits the connection the client has to the colours and texture of the land she once farmed.
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