A home office in a quiet spot, light-filled interior living spaces, an alfresco entertaining area next to a swimming pool … these were just some of Steve and Kirsty’s must-haves.

Having secured the perfect site in Berkeley Vale, the couple sat down with the team at Baxco Homes to discuss what they wanted. “They pictured a home filled with a lot of light in the living areas, a living/meals/kitchen area with an open-plan layout, and an alfresco area overlooking a pool they could use as their main entertaining zone,” says Tabytha Hipwell, Office Manager, Baxco Homes.

“As Steve, who is a draftsman, works from home, he needed a dedicated office to the front of the house, and the couple wanted three separate living areas. A media room to the front near the master bedroom and office, and a main living room in the middle of the house — this was to have a large fireplace.

“The third was to be a kids’ retreat between the kids’ rooms, so they could close the door and let them have their own little oasis down the rear of the house. This would also let the couple have their own space, yet still be close enough to tend to the kids when needed.”

The rear outdoor entertaining area was also a priority, with Steve especially keen on having a barbecue set within a built-in concrete bench. This concept developed into a sleek, custom construction that includes prep space, a sink, and a bench where you can sit and chat to the cook while he barbecues.

“The wall behind is clad in a gorgeous dark-grey, crazy-style stone that was honed so it is flat-faced. This brings some extra colour to the outdoor area and is one of the home’s major design features,” says Tabytha.

Separating the covered outdoor entertaining area from the pool is frameless glass fencing. This allows an unobstructed view and makes both spaces read as one. At one end of the pool is a generous space for lounging about.

As for the front of the house, Tabytha says, “Our clients had a vision for the facade and we brought it to life. The look is very modern and the palette of materials includes Hebel with timber screening and wall tiles used as features. We also installed Stackerstone to the front piers and the combination of colours and textures really makes the home stand out.”

Kirsty and Steve’s selection of materials, colours and profiles for the interior was just as well-considered. Take the kitchen as an example. It features a gloss white subway-tiled kitchen splashback, white Shaker-profile cabinetry with black handles, black tapware, and an island bench with a Caesarstone top (Airy Concrete colour) with waterfall ends. To make the space as light as possible, Baxco Homes installed three Velux skylights and for visual warmth, there is Mistura Sorrel-coloured hybrid flooring.

Baxco Homes, which was established by builder James Perry, produces custom-designed homes without the custom design price tag. As part of her managerial role, Tabytha is heavily involved in the planning, design, pre-construction, and overall process. “I am very passionate about the construction industry and I love that this job grows more each day,” she says. “Being part of an extraordinary team that works its absolute hardest to bring our clients’ dreams to life would have to be one of the most amazing things I could ever be a part of and I am very grateful to hold this position within our company.”A home office in a quiet spot, light-filled interior living spaces, an alfresco entertaining area next to a swimming pool … these were just some of Steve and Kirsty’s must-haves.

Having secured the perfect site in Berkeley Vale, the couple sat down with the team at Baxco Homes to discuss what they wanted. “They pictured a home filled with a lot of light in the living areas, a living/meals/kitchen area with an open-plan layout, and an alfresco area overlooking a pool they could use as their main entertaining zone,” says Tabytha Hipwell, Office Manager, Baxco Homes.

“As Steve, who is a draftsman, works from home, he needed a dedicated office to the front of the house, and the couple wanted three separate living areas. A media room to the front near the master bedroom and office, and a main living room in the middle of the house — this was to have a large fireplace.

“The third was to be a kids’ retreat between the kids’ rooms, so they could close the door and let them have their own little oasis down the rear of the house. This would also let the couple have their own space, yet still be close enough to tend to the kids when needed.”

The rear outdoor entertaining area was also a priority, with Steve especially keen on having a barbecue set within a built-in concrete bench. This concept developed into a sleek, custom construction that includes prep space, a sink, and a bench where you can sit and chat to the cook while he barbecues.

“The wall behind is clad in a gorgeous dark-grey, crazy-style stone that was honed so it is flat-faced. This brings some extra colour to the outdoor area and is one of the home’s major design features,” says Tabytha.

Separating the covered outdoor entertaining area from the pool is frameless glass fencing. This allows an unobstructed view and makes both spaces read as one. At one end of the pool is a generous space for lounging about.

As for the front of the house, Tabytha says, “Our clients had a vision for the facade and we brought it to life. The look is very modern and the palette of materials includes Hebel with timber screening and wall tiles used as features. We also installed Stackerstone to the front piers and the combination of colours and textures really makes the home stand out.”

Kirsty and Steve’s selection of materials, colours and profiles for the interior was just as well-considered. Take the kitchen as an example. It features a gloss white subway-tiled kitchen splashback, white Shaker-profile cabinetry with black handles, black tapware, and an island bench with a Caesarstone top (Airy Concrete colour) with waterfall ends. To make the space as light as possible, Baxco Homes installed three Velux skylights and for visual warmth, there is Mistura Sorrel-coloured hybrid flooring.

Baxco Homes, which was established by builder James Perry, produces custom-designed homes without the custom design price tag. As part of her managerial role, Tabytha is heavily involved in the planning, design, pre-construction, and overall process. “I am very passionate about the construction industry and I love that this job grows more each day,” she says. “Being part of an extraordinary team that works its absolute hardest to bring our clients’ dreams to life would have to be one of the most amazing things I could ever be a part of and I am very grateful to hold this position within our company.”

For more information, 

Baxco Homes 

The post A home office was a must have in this family home appeared first on Completehome.

There are many reasons why a home rebuild project can be the ideal solution for families seeking a lifestyle upgrade. “Renovating while living in the home can be a costly, disruptive, and lengthy process, especially if the home is of an age where asbestos or lead may be present,” says Daniel Logue, General Manager, Fairmont Homes NSW.

“You could move and buy a new home but many families steer away from this option due to the stress of inspections, negotiations, rising house prices, and the likelihood of ending up with a home that you have had to compromise on. A knockdown-rebuild offers a new beginning; an opportunity to design your dream family home without compromising on anything at all!”

The Bellevue 36, now on display at HomeWorld Marsden Park in Sydney’s North West, was designed to give families everything they desire, including space and flexibility. “We looked at what clients commonly asked for in their dream home and the Bellevue 36 is the result. Available with a range of inclusions and upgrades, the home offers the ultimate lifestyle but without the price tag,” says Daniel.

Entry to the home is through a beautiful 1200mm-wide timber door featuring intricate detailing — this sets the standard for the interior. With a separate media room to the front of the home, the rest of the ground floor boasts an expansive open-plan design with soaring 2.7m-high ceilings.

“The floor plan allows for easy entertaining with all areas visible and accessible from the galley kitchen, complete with a hidden butler’s pantry, situated at the heart of the home. You can watch your kids playing in the yard while cooking up a storm,” says Daniel. “And with guest quarters at the rear of the ground floor, they have access to their own bedroom, bathroom and laundry, ensuring privacy for all.

“The sweeping staircase is the masterpiece of this home and an artwork in its own right. This statement staircase ushers you up the spacious first floor where you will find three additional bedrooms and the parents’ grand suite. This has its own retreat, walk-in robe and ensuite. We wanted the master suite to feel like an oasis — a private, peaceful place in which to decompress after a long day.”

The interior design of the home, along with the carefully curated mix of fittings and finishes, really brings this beautiful build to life. This can be seen in the Phoenix tapware and accessories, the Caesarstone benchtop in the kitchen and the decision to forgo a bulkhead in the kitchen and, instead, extend the cupboards to create additional storage space.

“All our designs can be modified to suit all blocks and locations,” adds Daniel. “Our team of highly experienced Building and Design Consultants can offer customised solutions whether it’s a single- or double-storey home, a split-level design or a duplex. We take pride in our customer-oriented approach, eye for fine detail and excellent workmanship — an approach that enables us to create homes ideally suited to the modern family lifestyle.”

For more information

Fairmont Homes 

The post Seeking a lifestyle upgrade? A Home Rebuild is the way to go appeared first on Completehome.

I love watching home building shows on TV and was initially intrigued by ‘kit homes’, but I wasn’t so keen after more detailed research. Then I found out about ‘modular homes’, which have a lot more design flexibility and inclusions than kit homes. After showing my husband my research, we agreed that a modular home was the way to go. We searched online, found Manor Homes, and we were immediately captivated by one of their designs.

We were keen to downsize in an intelligent way, retaining large living areas but reducing the areas we no longer need. The perfect retirement home for us is a quiet, peaceful place that fits in with its natural environment. We chose the Mitchell 3 home design and tailored it to suit our needs.

This was our fourth home build. We had one nightmare build and also experienced the dreaded ‘variation cost’, when a driveway price came in at double the original quote. We’re wise to the traps now so we were actually quite fearless! Even better, with Manor Homes, we had the extra assurance of a fixed price and their proven and dependable modular home building process.

“In particular, it was lovely not to worry about the weather causing any delays as the main construction took place in a factory and then the finishing touches were added on our site. During the fast 5-week factory build, our Production Manager updated us with photos every week so we had peace of mind that everything was on track.”

Manor Homes looked after the council approvals, which was a big help. Initially, our Bushfire Attack Level (BAL) rating came in at 12.5, but Manor Homes worked with council to achieve a BAL-LOW rating. This meant there were no specific construction requirements and was a significant cost saving for us.

The build was an impressive process. It was fast and stress free. We enjoyed watching the house being built and it was amazing to see the home delivered and installed and completed on site so efficiently.

The design is a country style that fits in beautifully with the landscape, high above the Williams River in the Hunter Valley. The orientation is perfect for summer and winter, giving us multiple verandah spots depending on the position of the sun.

The gable roof is stunning and the high ceilings are absolutely beautiful with a feature cornice. The ironstone metal cladding fits in well with the country surrounds.

From a day-to-day perspective, everything is perfect and low maintenance. The tiles in our living areas are very practical for our two affectionate English and American Labradors. Colorbond® cladding is, of course, famed for its low maintenance. We will definitely have more time to spend outside!

This home has given us the lifestyle we want, and we couldn’t be enjoying it more. We feel like we are ‘retired but not retired’! We keep busy outdoors, and my husband has a permaculture (PDC) certificate so he aims to improve the produce we get off the land. We also have total privacy. Our house fits us and our lifestyle like a glove.

Manor Homes has been brilliant, and we’ve really appreciated their excellent after-sales service as well.

For more information

Manor Homes

The post The Paterson: a dream retirement home for all seasons appeared first on Completehome.

You don’t need to live at the beach to enjoy a Hamptons lifestyle. Whether you’re seeking coastal vibe street appeal or an everyday holiday mood, this elegant modular home from Manor will indulge you, and you can get it sooner than you think.

“Relaxing tones of grey and white bathe the whole property, including the exterior horizontal panelling with contrast rendering. Symmetrical design lines, a steep pitched roof, the welcoming verandah and a distinctive white picket fence all evoke the iconic Hamptons style,” says Andrew Monks, Managing Director of Manor, a company that has been building high-quality modular homes for more than 27 years.

This is an abode that makes a compelling first impression. The exterior of the home achieves perfection with a Hamptons-style finish, namely a combination of durable James Hardie cladding and Taubmans texture coating. The cladding, along with the heritage and colonial bar windows and use of thick profiles, create a facade that flawlessly captures the classic Hamptons look of which Australians are so enamoured.

Inside the home, traditional Hamptons touches abound, such as the chrome pendant lights above the kitchen island benchtop and bathroom vanity. Outside, lovely coach lights greet you at night. Light and lots of it is a hallmark of a Hamptons home so the interior features well-placed high-set windows, including clerestory windows in the kitchen, and the verandah boasts sun-capturing skylights. In a nod to the modern, the skylights have been fitted with electronic blinds.

This is a home replete with appealing features but for Andrew, there are three that really stand out. First is the distinctive panelling. “Nothing shouts Hamptons more than timber skirting, architraves and panelling,” he says. “Decorative wainscoting and moulded dado rails adorn the lounge and bedroom walls while raked panelled ceilings enhance the sense of space — every detail has been carefully considered.”

He is also particularly proud of the kitchen, which he describes as “classic Hamptons”. Says Andrew, “Note the Shaker cabinetry, porcelain handles, ornate tapware, 40mm-thick double-bullnose stone benchtops, and grey tile splashback which is on-trend but will never be out of fashion. This is all highlighted by the clerestory window which makes a grand statement.

“The window treatments are also something special,” he continues. “Wide surrounds frame both the interior and exterior high-set window faces. The architrave design, windowsills, heritage bar windows and character-filled plantation shutters finish the Hamptons story.”

Dressing the interior with wainscoting, panelling, Shaker doors and shiny chrome hardware really creates a picture-perfect Hamptons look while the use of French doors, inbuilt skylights and a dormer window encourages cooling breezes and an endless flow of natural light, making the home supremely liveable.

“A lot of people have preconceived notions about modular homes, which quickly changes when they tour our displays,” says Andrew. “Sometimes people don’t realise the flexibility and design diversity you can enjoy with a modular home. For example, the Hamptons facade and style options are available with all our floor plans.

“What’s more, modular building brings with it a host of benefits. The system-built construction process is efficient, cost-effective and precise. By building the home in a controlled environment, you get the highest level of quality control and a compressed timeframe, meaning you can be in your home sooner.”

And, adds Andrew, “Our most common comment from clients is ‘I never knew modular homes could be this good’.”

For more information

Manor Group

The post This modular home embodies Hamptons for an easy yet classic build appeared first on Completehome.

When most of us think of a city–country life, we assume it would be Monday to Friday spent in the city with country escapes limited to the weekend. But for Gaia Retreat & Spa’s director and general manager, Gregg Cave, life is quite the opposite, as he spends the working week in the Shire of Byron Bay and weekends in the heart of the Gold Coast.

Since opening in 2005, Gaia has received numerous accolades and awards, gaining an impeccable reputation as a leading boutique spa. At the World Spa Awards in September 2015, Gaia took out the World’s Best Day Spa =QUOTE= and Oceania’s Best Day Spa.
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Gregg isn’t afraid to admit that it’s a lot of pressure to maintain the company’s prestigious stance in the industry. “I was living at Gaia when we first bought the property more than 10 years ago,” he says. “I was working on the design of the place and eventually I ended up taking over as the project manager during construction. After four years, it became overwhelming — Gaia became my entire life and it was not healthy.” A solution presented itself when the Gaia Board, comprising Gregg, Ruth Kalnin, Olivia Newton-John and Warwick Evans, purchased the property next door to Gaia, which became Gregg’s home.

While Gregg’s home is small, it is in perfect simpatico with the rest of Gaia’s stunning architecture. Originally a small brick cottage, the home and its grounds have been renovated and landscaped to blend in with the stunning natural surrounds and “let Mother Nature be the star of the show”. And what a show it is.

The home is set atop the highest hill in the Byron Shire. With sweeping view s across Byron’s rolling hinterland and the Pacific Ocean, these are some of the best vistas in the entire region — and that’s saying something.

The interiors are simple yet stunning. Prior to joining the board of Gaia, Gregg was a working actor and, later, a successful fine art dealer. He is especially humble about his art collection and puts much of it down to luck and the generosity of his artist friends, contacts and clients. When pushed, he reveals some of his collection, which includes an original John Olsen watercolour. It is the original pre-working piece for King Sun, featured in the lobby of Tower 1, Collins Square in Melbourne.

Gregg’s home is a glorious mix of collectables from his many travels and a showcase of his enviable art collection. “The design inspiration for Gaia and my home is intentionally centred on the colours of the local flora and fauna,” says Gregg. “Bringing the colours of nature in and connecting with the land is integral to our look and philosophy.” You don’t have to look too hard to see these design values in play; warm wood tones, highlights of green and earthy accents are woven throughout Gaia. Gregg chooses much of the signature soft furnishings from close friend Tai Schaffler from Bandhini Designs, who is also based on the Gold Coast.

In all the structures on Gaia, including Gregg’s personal home, allowing nature to shine is the constant theme. Structurally, there is a seamless flow between the inside and out throughout all the buildings on the property. This is a typical North Coast architectural feature, where the climate is temperate and the lines between the interiors and exteriors are constantly and intentionally blurred.

Much of Gaia’s success is owed to Gregg, the board and their amazing staff, many of whom have been with Gaia from conception. But possibly the most potent ingredient in Gaia’s success lies in the magical land it is blessed to be on. The Byron Shire is famed and respected as a healing region, attracting some of the most talented healers and practitioners in Australia, and Gaia benefits greatly from the pool of local talent.

“I know I’m blessed to live here,” says Gregg. “And every day, I consciously give thanks. But even with my separate house, I was still working too hard and not disconnecting from Gaia. With the other three directors, we realised we needed to buy somewhere away from Gaia, where I could escape on weekends and have a life, so we bought a fabulous apartment on Broadbeach Waters.” Securing a one-bedroom villa, the apartment features a huge living area and generous deck with swimming pool. “It’s right on the water facing north with a wonderful city skyline,” says Gregg. “It’s perfect for me on the weekends.”

Every Friday at 4pm, Gregg packs the car and the dogs. “I like to be up the coast for Friday night,” he says. “I get to visit the local cinema and watch the latest films in supreme comfort. I can indulge in all those city things you can’t do in Byron — smart dining, great shopping, visiting galleries and enjoying the buzz of the city. But being able to balance that with my life at gorgeous Gaia, as I constantly acknowledge, I truly know I’m blessed!”

Written by Tracey Hordern
Photography by Clive Buxton

The post Grand Designs Australia: From Gaia with love appeared first on Completehome.