Summer calling

Designing a new home can seem like a juggling act you have a list of must-haves that you throw into the air with the very real hope they will fall in place exactly as planned.

That was precisely the case with this house, which was designed, built and project managed by Signature Homes North Shore. Builder and project manager Stephen Garvey says the owners needed a large home for their growing family. They wanted a contemporary design that would maximise the morning and afternoon sun, and the expansive sea views, while providing privacy from the neighbouring properties.

"Local bylaws added to the challenge," Garvey says. "To accommodate all the space required, the house needed to be three storeys, but there were height restrictions to consider, as well as height-to-boundary regulations. Designing a flat membrane roof to the suite on the top floor meant we could provide three levels."

Aesthetics didn't need to be compromised, however. The house appears to step up to its full height in increments, so it is not overpowering.

"Because we wanted a generous living space on the mid level, we needed to create a larger lower level to fit in all the required rooms," says Garvey. "This floor provides two double garages, a home theatre-rumpus room, gym, laundry and three bedrooms."

Although not symmetrical, the architecture is visually balanced. A centred formal entry with steps leading up to the front door is flanked by two mature palm trees.

Additional visual interest is provided by the choice of building materials the house is a mix of white-plastered Hebel panels and dark charcoal weatherboards. Cedar doors and soffits help to warm the exterior visually and provide a strong link to the landscaping.

"The materials, which also include a concrete tiled roof on the lower gabled forms, were chosen for ease of maintenance and durability," says Garvey.

Timber features inside the house as well on window frames, door lintels, flooring and kitchen cabinets.

To cater to modern living, the family living area is open plan, and most rooms have large sliders opening to a terrace or balcony.

Story by: Colleen Hawkes

Photography by: Jamie Cobeldick