Sanctuary

You can make do and get by, or you can make a decision that sets up your family for life. Talking to a design-and-build firm that creates modern lifestyle residences may be the first step.

Graeme Alexander Homes creates dramatic, upmarket houses that help celebrate the client's day-to-day life, says owner Graeme Alexander.

"This project is an example of how the right eye and mindset can turn the attributes of site and position into something much more.

"Our starting point was a 0.3ha battleaxe-shape site with an existing two-storey house and a beautiful garden at the rear sloping down to a secluded creek. The existing pool was in just the right spot to catch the sun."

Originally, the plan was to renovate, but the existing upper floor level was not high enough to make the most of the view to Port Phillip Bay.

"We designed the new house in almost the same place as the original residence, but fully optimised the bay views from all angles, and at the same time protected the garden and pool.

"But to achieve a great result requires hard work behind the scenes. Erosion management was necessary and we dealt with this by extensive in-ground structuring. Strip footings over bored concrete piers support the slab floor," says Graeme Alexander. "All out of sight and mind, but the house will last for generations."

On the interior, space was maximised, while a simple design addressed the tight budget. The result is over 40m² of well-organised living area.

Looking to the future, provision is made for the installation of an elevator.

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

Story by: Trendsideas