Sapphire Bay Estate

This is a home designed very specifically to suit the block and the owners. Our owner works in real estate and so this was a very savvy owner who knew what they wanted. They were building for themselves, no kids, and not for re-sale–which is really a pleasure for both the designer and the builder. The block is a battle-axe and an unusual cup-shape backing onto bushland that dips away giving views into a gentle valley at the rear of the property. The home has been shaped to embrace this aspect.

The front entrance is centered and accentuated by the pitched roofline & gable. The symmetry of the front aspect is enhanced by the linear geometry of the feature hardwood truss & exposed rafters. This has the effect of drawing the subject into the generous entrance-way. Left and right wings angle away either side of the entrance.

Immediately upon entering a sense of space and grandeur sweeps you up-literally. Eyes will be drawn up by the exposed raked rafters. The vaulted ceiling contributing to the voluminous feel of the open living area. A wall of glass sliding doors span the length of the living area opening onto the central pool and outdoor living area. Above this windows are set into the gable maximising the natural light and unifying the flow of the indoor & outdoor space.

Inset into the sleek polished concrete floor are azure blue glass beads reflecting and connecting the inside with the azure colour of the pool centred into the outdoor area. This central living area of the house, indoors and outdoor, looks toward the valley dipping away at the rear of the property. The left and right wings of the house (extending from the central living area) embrace the outdoor pool and living area. The left-wing consists of an office, bedroom, ensuite and laundry. The right has the kitchen, which is open to the living area and behind this is the master suite. These flanking wings cleverly consolidate the focal point of the central living area and make sense of the symmetry of the home’s design and aspect on the property.

A neutral colour scheme of white walls, ceilings and cabinetry enhances the natural light and open airy feel of the home. Textural interest is found in the natural stone benchtops, polished concrete floor, and wood features throughout. Interior and exterior continuity is achieved through the feature of the exposed rafters and locally sourced ironbark posts that surround and celebrate the outdoor living area. Inside a bespoke wooden barn door creates a relaxed junction between the central living area and the lefthand wing of the home.

A uniquely shaped block has given rise to a fantastic design. Simplicity and restraint in fixtures and finishes combines to give compliment to a home that offers surprisingly sumptuous splendour tucked away in its suburban setting.