Why were you building a new house?
We were living in Brisbane when we started building and had bought the block of land in Scarborough because we wanted to downsize. Our three children had grown up and two of them were already living independently.
We’d built a few houses in the past and wanted to build again so we could get exactly what we wanted.
We’d also spent a lot of time living in a large house on acreage and wanted a smaller house with a much smaller outdoor area that was easy to maintain. We wanted to spend less time gardening and more time at the beach, entertaining and travelling.
How did you choose the location?
We wanted to be on the coast with no road between our house and the beach. It’s quite hard to find a lot like that so our lot, with only a bike path between the house and beach, immediately stood out.
What was the brief?
The plans had already been made by the developers but Suncity Homes helped us modify and finalise them to suit our needs.
We wanted a modern, minimalist, open plan house that was designed for easy maintenance and to maximise the ocean views.
How does the house fulfill that brief?
The house certainly maximises the views which can be seen downstairs from the kitchen, lounge and informal dining area, outside from the entertainment areas and pool, and upstairs from the master bedroom, multipurpose room and balconies.
Suncity Homes advised us about the glazing and we’ve got big sliding doors that open right out to maximise the views and give us great indoor/outdoor flow.
There are three bedrooms with two guest bedrooms slightly separated at the back of the house to ensure privacy when we’ve got guests staying.
There’s also a huge basement with lots of storage and a three-car garage.
What was Suncity’s role and input?
Suncity did all the building and acted as a good sounding board to help us make decisions and finalise the details. For example, when choosing the right types of material for the absolute beachfront location and harsh weather conditions.
Ben who managed all the building was very good. He was very accommodating and easy to get along with but also helpful in terms of giving advice on building materials. He’s got lots of contacts in the building industry which was useful and he really understands the whole building process.
What aspects of the project are unique?
The development in itself is quite unique in terms of the way the beachfront house lots are integrated with the apartments behind. We like that our house fits in well with the rest of the development while remaining unique itself.
It fits in well with the design of the development but shows individuality too. For example, we chose the colour schemes based on three shades of grey which look clean, modern and hopefully timeless.
How would you sum up the building experience?
Overall it was a good experience and stress-free. We’ve built houses before and this was a relaxed process.
Although it did take a bit longer than expected, the final product and finishings are excellent. We’re really happy with how the house has turned out.
How would you describe the finished building?
It’s a modern beach house that works well for a couple but allows us room to entertain and have guests. There’s minimal maintenance; you can just turn the key and leave. The ornamental gardens at the front with formal hedges for screening and privacy just need regular trimming, and the more tropical gardens at the back also only need weeding and trimming now and then.
What did you enjoy about working with Suncity Homes?
They were friendly, which is always good, and easy to work with.
Ben’s always listened to what we had to say and asked us the right questions or pointed us in the right direction to look at relevant products or get more advice from his contacts.
It’s a lovely spot and we’re very happy with it.
