The design by Shane Denman Architects was undertaken back in 2013 however circumstances dictated construction was delayed allowing plenty of time to resolve the vast level of detail required, a complex construction program, the budget and obtain planning and development approval without the constraint of time. The Clients fondness for the locale and intention to live in one of the duplexes was the catalyst for the design, and interacting indoor and outdoor living was high on the agenda.

 

Upon entry, the impressive scale is emphasized by a 3-storey void and looking directly through the bespoke open steel and timber stair to the living spaces.  The living room basks in ample natural light from open voids above, while also affording the owner privacy. Ground-level is dominated by the stylish and uncluttered kitchen and living room opening out to an inviting terrace and pool and accentuated by the greenery of native planting and turf.  Three generous sized bedrooms and ultra-modern bathrooms make up the second floor and a top floor family room with a built-in daybed and huge balcony allow views to the glorious Tallebudgera Creek and onto the Gold Coast Hinterland.  

 

Internally the use of pristine white walls and ceilings contrast against black detailing and both are softened by blemished tones of concrete and timber.  

 

From a construction point of view, there were many and varied challenges to delivering a top-quality finish to a Client who knew what he wanted.  One of the more challenging issues presented was the polished concrete ground floor slab.  It was completed in one pour to avoid joins, then it was vital to protect the slab from being damaged over the course of the 11-month build.  The 9m steel posts are one of the prominent internal features of the bespoke stair but were also supremely difficult to manoeuvre into position. 

 

Externally articulated facades using Rockcote concrete render, Innowood composite timber cladding, Linea weatherboards, Matrix board and NRG cladding also bought particular attention to waterproofing where different materials meet.  Recent heavy rainfalls have tested this waterproofing, but the constant overall vigilance and attention to detail by SDM Builders during construction have proven their high construction standards apply to the functional as well as the visual.

 

The client, Builder and Architect worked closely throughout the whole build of the duplex and open communication channels between the three parties have resulted in a top-quality finish that kept to time and budget expectations.