Raised on high

When looking to upgrade from an ordinary home to a lifestyle property, it may pay to start the location search directly under your feet. The right design company can optimise an existing site, building afresh to capture sun and scenery.

Known for its stand-out lifestyle residences, Graeme Alexander Homes is also experienced in unlocking the unrealised potential of an existing property, says owner Graeme Alexander.

"On this new home project, for example, the owners wanted to rebuild on the site of their much loved, but under-used old holiday home, with a view to living there full time.

"The 978m² site has northerly views over Port Phillip Bay to the city and beyond. However, the existing '60s-style brick home had been poorly positioned on the land, and failed to make the most of the spectacular location."

The client wish list specified an open, airy home that would be easy to live in, fit into the setting and optimise the coastal outlooks.

"Making the most of the views dictated the shape, scale and height of the house, which has a low-pitched roof and parapeted extension spaces. We moved the new house forward on the site and included a crank' in its shape, to maintain a view corridor for the neighbours."

In this home the main living, kitchen and dining spaces are upstairs, together with the master bedroom, ensuite, spare bedroom, and expansive deck. Bedrooms, a craft room and a second living area are on the ground level, along with the entry and garage.

Contact Graeme Alexander Homes, phone (03) 5975 4561. Website: www.gahomes.com.au

Story by: Trendsideas