With a desire to create both a rural sanctuary, and a space to share with friends and family, the clients engaged Dion Keech Architects and custom home builders Hedger Constructions, to bring their vision to life.

The home has a unique spatial organisation, sited upon the crest of a hill. It consists of two distinct wings which are subtly angled around a courtyard, forming the central focus of the dwelling, and creating a dramatic entry. “The home was envisaged with an opaque wall to the rear so that the view would only be revealed when you cross the entry threshold,” explains Dion Keech, Director of Dion Keech Architects. “The wings step-down to follow the contours of the land and the large, cantilevered skillion roof overhangs at each end, emphasising the mid-century silhouete”.

A home connected to the land and brimming with personality

Central to the project brief was honouring the homeowner’s deep connection to the land. “The clients required a timeless design, a property that looks as if it has always been there and has grown from the red earth on which it stands”, says Dion. “To achieve this, we utilised an earthy palette of natural materials, including native Australian timber, stone, copper and polished concrete”.

Internally, the artisan craftsmanship of Hedger Constructions is on full display. “Hardwood ceilings flow throughout the central open plan area”, explains Steven Hedger, Director of Hedger Constructions, “merging with the frameless glass highlight windows to provide connection to the surrounding landscape”. Counterbalanced by light grey Geostone concrete floors, the material approach uses texture and pattern to create visual interest.

The open plan living room features an impressive hand-laid stone-clad fireplace and a sunken lounge, “allowing for the family to sit around the fire and be almost level with the red earth outside,” says Dion. Thoughtful placement of large timber windows ensures views of the valley are enjoyed not only from the lounge, but all living spaces and bedrooms of the home.

Throughout the kitchen custom made timber cabinetry creates an atmosphere of warmth and authenticity. “The curved island bench and splashback are finished in hand cut moss green tiles, adding geometric interest”, explains Steven.

A favourite of the homeowners, the dining area features a secret wall bar, hidden behind walnut pocket doors and finished in ‘Toledo’ marble stone with luminescent veins of green and gold.

The approach to furniture styling converses effortlessly with the architecture, drawing inspiration from the site’s immediate landscape. With furniture, art and object styling by Simone Haag, pedigree mid-century furniture blends with contemporary and functional pieces to create an authenticity that feels interesting, elevated, and personal.

Blackbutt timber boards line the bathrooms, complemented by Fibonacci’s ‘freckle’ terrazzo floor tiles which are dappled with timber-toned aggregate. Bronzed fixtures and timber cabinetry reinforce the natural, earthy feel.

The clean architectural simplicity continues to the generously proportioned master bedroom and walk in robe. Here seagrass wallpaper contributes tonal layers and vintage style light fittings imbue a sense of warmth and calm.

A collaborative approach

Bespoke in all aspects, this home required a collaborative approach, for which both Hedger Constructions and Dion Keech Architects are renowned. Working hand-in-hand, all parties contributed their expertise to create this truly unique, showpiece home.

Servicing Melbourne and Regional Victoria, Dion Keech Architects brought an informed understanding of the potential of the site and creatively utilised the space and light to design this timeless Australian home.

With a reputation underpinned by over 30 Master Builders Association Awards, including multiple Regional Builder of the Year wins, Hedger Constructions are the trusted name to deliver custom homes of this size and calibre. Every Hedger Constructions home is masterfully crafted with a considered, innovative approach, and this new rural residence is no exception.

For more information

Hedger Constructions

Image credit: Dylan James Photography

The post House Design with a Profound Land Connection appeared first on Completehome.

Featuring an interior rammed earth wall, nail strip cladding and polished concrete flooring, the natural colour palette of this modern farmhouse perfectly suits the stunning rural surrounds. An open plan kitchen, dining and living area is the heart of the home, with compartmentalised living zones for private areas.

Hedger Constructions worked closely with the client and architect ‐ hand in hand all the way through the process, to create a custom home that met the client’s vision of an open plan, easy living, modern take on a farmhouse.

The zoned design of this custom home provides privacy via separate wings for family and guest accommodation, anchored by an inviting central kitchen, dining and living space. The communal spaces are open-plan yet can be closed off from the bedroom wings to provide excellent energy efficiency.

The warm and welcoming communal area features floor-to-ceiling windows and doors with clerestory glazing installed at the roofline. The clerestories provide natural ventilation strategies, whilst delivering extra daylight and providing a method of heating thermal mass in the rammed earth wall which features in the living area.

The maxiply wood ceiling and acoustic ceiling lining of the central living zone helps reduce noise and create a relaxing atmosphere. A bespoke fireplace layout incorporating Chiminees Phillip wood heater sits on an elevated custom hearth with a surrounding bench seat and under drawer storage.

This uniquely designed custom home is on the large acreage of a working farm, with the house set amongst existing heritage and native garden. Careful management of the existing landscape of a key priority in the build.

As the Victorian High Country is known for extremes in weather conditions and temperatures, the home was built to suit these environment issues. High levels of fire protection were incorporated via material selection and design. Extensive wall and ceiling insulation and complete sealing of gaps was also vital to ensure temperature stability and minimise reliance on heating and cooling.

This custom home features a range of green living features including, double glazed windows, water tanks, thermally broken rammed earth walls and a heat pump hot water service.

Hedger Constructions provided a comprehensive range of services for this project, working closely with the client and Michael Greer Architects. Hedger Constructions managed all aspects of the design and construct project including planning and permit requirements; selection of materials, fixtures and finishes; and construction. The result is a uniquely designed, precisely executed custom home with premium materials and expert craftsmanship.

Hedger Constructions are Victoria’s multi-award-winning custom home builders. Specialising in luxury custom home construction, Hedger Constructions are redefining modern living with homes that transcend the traditional. Creating bespoke custom homes from concept to completion, the company is renowned for unique, energy efficient and innovative homes with the aim of total client satisfaction.

For more information

Hedger Construction

The post A Modern Farmhouse inspired by the old tobacco kilns of the Victorian High County appeared first on Completehome.

The Saxonvale 33 is a design like no other. The innovative use of McDonald Jones exclusive SUPALOC framing system with Bluescope Truecore steel across both levels of this two-storey home is truly unique, and a highlight of the innovative craftmanship within the McDonald Jones two-storey design range. It is easy to fall in love with the space offered in this design and the clever way each of the elements combine to create a beautiful and modern family home.

The facade of the Saxonvale 33 design is classic and timeless, with Hamptons styling flowing inside to out. The level of detail in every aspect truly brings the Hamptons feel to life, from the facade and the colours right down to the cushions and finishes.

Inside, the craftmanship of the build is on display from the herringbone timber floors to the stunning profiled cabinetry and joinery. Meanwhile, the detailed vertical panelling in the feature walls is inspiring and demonstrates the attention to detail that McDonald Jones is renowned for.
The heart of this home is without a doubt the designer gourmet kitchen. Featuring a spacious walk-in pantry that is the dream of all entertainers, integrated appliances, an impressive island bench and a light oak herringbone timber floor throughout, it’s a true centrepiece of the open family and dining areas.

Both the dining and family spaces open to the alfresco cabana, bringing the outside in and allowing for true indoor/outdoor entertaining.

Upstairs, a generous parents’ retreat, walk-in robes and a private balcony offer a tranquil space in which to relax at the end of a long day.

For the kids, there are three well-designed bedrooms, while an activity space provides a third living area within the home. With the option of a study nook, ideal for growing families and changing dynamics, the Saxonvale 33 design offers flexibility and timeless appeal.

The creamy weatherboard exterior with white trims provides a stunning first impression for what promises to be a classic coastal home. Through the front door, you are welcomed into a gorgeous formal living area with inverted wainscoting up the feature wall and a cascade of natural light. Dressed in creamy white linens, the slip-cover sofa and matching occasional chair make space for deep conversation between friends. Traditional white furniture provides plenty of storage and styling opportunities, while the crystal chandelier is the real star of the show.

The open-plan living and dining are in keeping with the neutral palette, while the oak nougat herringbone timber provides a warm base for the whole lower floor. A wool rug in a subtle diamond pattern gives a lovely texture, while the Chesterfield sofa and brass-studded armchair elevate the space with traditional sophistication. The dining area features a round table with oatmeal linen chairs. Another crystal chandelier takes centre stage here, tying the front and rear rooms together. A more casual dining option sits in the covered alfresco, with sliding doors allowing for easy indoor/outdoor access. The white rattan dining set would make a lovely spot to start your day in, appreciating the bird calls of the local wildlife while sipping on a hot coffee.

The kitchen is classic. Shaker-style cabinetry, glossy white subway tiles, a Calacatta marble benchtop right the way through and loads of effortless storage make this a dream come true for any home chef. With convenient entry from the garage via the scullery, your grocery shopping never need take over the counter again, with the walk-in pantry and integrated fridge right at your fingertips. The warm grey of the cabinetry is sure to remain timeless and keeps the kitchen feeling clean but not clinical.

Upstairs, all the bedrooms continue in the beige and crisp white tones, layering plush linens, cushions and throws to make for comfortable personal retreats. Each bedroom boasts its own walk-in robe, while the family bathroom takes its lead from the kitchen but introduces a lovely encaustic floor tile for a bit of extra personality. The main bedroom has a subtle feature wall of VJ panelling and a mini chandelier in the same crystal style elsewhere. The winged bedhead is an added touch of luxury, with a parents’ retreat overlooking the private balcony. His and hers walk-in robes are a must-have for a home of this calibre, and the ensuite uses a unique design of hiding the toilet and shower behind the wall hosting the double vanity. The black, white and grey encaustic tiles make another appearance, while the gorgeous warm grey cabinetry is consistent with the rest of the home.

For more information

McDonald Jones Homes

The post The Saxonvale 33 is a Modern Day Marvel appeared first on Completehome.

The application of perfection results in a beautifully presented home that will become a “forever home” to your family and is built to be Life Ready.

The Amulree Street Tarragindi home sees the collaboration between architectural, interior design and construction to bring together a hint of modern Cape Cod design with a playful twist of a farmhouse vibe.

Cape Cod is known as the perfect balance between contemporary living with a touch of glamour and is a welcome addition of the home’s interior. Throughout the house, every element is enhanced by superior craftsmanship, demonstrating O’Shea & Sons love of building and design.

The façade of high gables, multiple roof structures, barn style garage door, detailed trims, weatherboard cladding, featured lighting and contrasting colours and textures makes for a showcase home that will be the envy of many.

The swimming pool area is accompanied by a gorgeous cabana and will be a signature of a relaxed atmosphere and at the same time allowing for the practicality of children supervision.

Feng Shui is applied as a guiding principle to the interior design with feeling of prosperity, wealth, and wellness being enhanced. Seamless connection between indoor and outdoor spaces creates the ultimate entertaining zones ready for inclusive connectivity and engagement.

Key features:

• Beyond turnkey with 447 sqm of house on 718sqm block
• Soaring high ceilings, an abundance of natural light
• Gourmet kitchen with Polytec cabinetry, Miele appliances, integrated fridges, Blanco Divino stone benchtops
• Butler’s pantry has second sink, Zip hydro tap with adjoining mudroom
• Oversized laundry with hanging fixtures plus open shelving
• Luxe primary suite has exquisite dresser, double showers
• Three king sized kid’s beds upstairs, guest suite downstairs
• Separate study and library on the upper floor
• Outdoor kitchen has bar fridges plus built-in barbecue and rangehood
• Secure gated entry, landscaped front lawns, tiled pathway and porch
• Smart wiring throughout, controlling lights, camera and alarm system, zoned ducted air conditioning plus more
• Garage space for 2-3 cars, gym/workshop plus a mezzanine floor for additional storage
• Custom barn style garage door with ‘3m height’ opening
• 10kw solar system provisioned for battery ready inverter
• Fully fenced, mature plants and reticulation water system
• Wellers Hill State School catchment, 6km from CBD

Best suited for:
Growing families of all ages seeking a custom designed home that prioritises an entertainers’ indoor/outdoor lifestyle.

Balance and Harmony

The application of natural elements such as wood, earth, fire, metal, and water combine to bring about balance, harmony, energy and prosperity.

Colours throughout will work effectively with linkages in feature walls, hard fixtures and complimented in decor, soft furnishings and furniture.

This could be you and your family living in this property.

The Tarra Project carries with it a hint of modern Hamptons and Cape  Cod design stylings that are known for their perfect balance of a home’s interior design.

For more information

O’Shea & Sons Builders

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