This custom build was recently named a Finalist in the HIA NSW Region for a Custom Build up to $800,000 and it is easy to see why this home was recognised amongst the best in the state.
This project in the leafy Western Sydney suburb of Leonay presented a myriad of unique challenges and features. Situated between the Leonay Golf course and the Nepean River, the site boasted 14 trees, a 4.5-meter fall, and tight dimensions with no services, split deliveries, and staggered construction. Despite facing flood events, a local sinkhole, and a land slip, this site became the canvas for an extraordinary custom 3-storey home.
The design, blending Scandi Barn, Modern Farmhouse, and Gothic elements, pushed the boundaries of scale, featuring a double-height void at the front and a stunning 12.5-degree raked ceiling at the rear. The integration of recycled and new materials, including copper downpipes, genuine recycled solid bricks, and plaster ceiling roses, added character and warmth, echoing the clients’ desire for a lived-in feel. High on the client’s priority list was privacy. The home was designed so that all Bedrooms, Bathrooms and key Living areas feature highlight windows, allowing ample light to filter through the home but maintaining privacy for our clients and their neighbours. The rear balcony was also designed with solid recycled brick walls to all sides to reduce visibility to neighbours.
Lastly, the clients wanted an oversized master bedroom suite including a living space and a thoughtful, large open ensuite with a double bowl vanity. The idea was to have the Ensuite feel less like a traditional bathroom and more like an extension of the Master Bedroom. With the use of a floating vanity wall, dual antique style mirrors and a wall sconce, this was achieved. The Master Suite was carefully designed to become the key feature of the first floor. The design of the Master Bedroom allowed for a set of huge, solid, arched double doors, which we had custom built by a local woodworker and now sit proudly as a feature entrance into this beautiful and relaxing space.
Upon entry, attention is immediately captured by unique features like the recycled slumped glass and iron bulkhead, transitioning seamlessly to blonde Oak hybrid planks and a striking black staircase against a gallery wall. The double-height void, adorned with full-height soft linen curtains, floods the space with natural light, creating a captivating ambiance.
This one-of-a-kind home has become a neighbourhood landmark, drawing admiration and inquiries from passers-by, a testament to its exceptional design and craftsmanship.
INNOVATIONS
Innovations were pivotal in this complex project, with a notable emphasis on construction methodology and design ingenuity. Facing unique challenges, our team employed a blend of traditional expertise and forward-thinking solutions to achieve exceptional results.
The construction methodology itself was a significant innovation, requiring a departure from standard practices to address the complexities of the site. By incorporating a mix of pier styles, we developed efficient and effective solutions tailored to the site’s specific requirements, ensuring stability and structural integrity.
The facade stands as a testament to our commitment to design excellence, blending form and function to create a striking visual statement. Careful planning and meticulous attention to detail were key in achieving the dramatic gable features synonymous with the Scandi Barn aesthetic. Utilising a combination of brickwork, foam panels, and acrylic render, we crafted a facade that not only captivates the eye but also reflects our dedication to pushing the boundaries of architectural innovation.
Modern innovation is evident throughout the home, particularly in the glazing treatment. By utilising a combination of double glazing and low-emissive coated glass, we ensured optimal thermal efficiency while maximizing natural light and views.
In the kitchen, several innovative features enhance both functionality and aesthetics. The 8 Bi-fold Pantry doors, a unique addition, required meticulous planning and collaboration among multiple trades to achieve seamless operation. Open shelves on the main kitchen wall serve as a showcase for antique artwork and decor, adding character and charm to the space. Additionally, the inclusion of a pot filler, initially conceived as a decorative accent, has proven to be a practical and stylish addition, further enhancing the kitchen’s appeal.
These innovations, coupled with our unwavering commitment to excellence, have resulted in a truly exceptional residence that exemplifies the intersection of form, function, and forward-thinking design.
ENVIRONMENTAL FEATURES
Western Sydney is subject to extreme temperatures. Some of the hottest summer days are felt there, with frosts also a regular occurrence throughout winter. This meant that not only the home but it’s landscaping had to be designed with both extremes in mind. The home’s colour selections, Western orientation, dark roof and blackout feature over the garage meant that additional consideration had to be given to the glazing and insulation of the home, specifically with Summer temperate in mind. In order to maintain a comfortable space for our clients inside the home year-round, a combination of double glazing and low-emissive coated glass, in some cases both, have been used throughout the home. A large solar panel system was added to the Northern side of the roof to take advantage of the home’s orientation and has proven to be a great, efficient and cost efficiency for our clients.
Although it wasn’t a requirement, our clients opted for a large 5000L rainwater tank to capture ample water storage for re-use in gardens, for water closet flushing and clothes washing. This is both a positive environmental impact and a long-term cost saving efficiency for our clients.
Plant selections were carefully curated to feature all native plants to the main gardens that can tolerate such an extreme climate including additional consideration of suitable locations for sheltered, raised vegetable garden beds to further promote self-sustainability.
TECHNOLOGY
The home features smart-home wiring via the Clipsal Wiser system. Complete with multiple sensors throughout the house, the lights turn on and off and can dim as required. The garage door can be remotely opened and closed even if off-site. The blinds are powered and move with sunrise and sunset; waking with the sun has been proven to boost our moods, reduce inflammation and depression and even helps us sleep better.
This Clipsal Wiser system is both Google and app driven and allows for efficient electricity use. Even the large 24kW Ducted Daikin Air Conditioning system is app controlled, and each room is individually zoned for best efficiency. The sleek black Gainsborough Freestyle Tri-lock entry handle blends seamlessly with the solid black feature front door and allows remote access and lock status at the touch of the app if required. Google can assist in locking/unlocking the front door and multiple codes can be created to be notified when a particular person has arrived home safely.
The many technological inclusions in this home were always a big driver for our clients to build a brand-new home. The addition of a Clipsal Wiser camera system adds modern security and even notifies you via the app if someone is approaching your home. You can easily record, speak and listen back via the app even when not home. The safety, security and convenience in all of these features along with not having to even have a front door key or garage fob is something our clients have quickly got used to!
MATERIALS
As you approach the facade, you’re immediately struck by a captivating blend of textures and colours. The exposed aggregate driveway sets the tone, leading seamlessly to custom-coloured concrete. Elegant copper downpipes and custom stormwater rain heads add a touch of sophistication, while recycled solid bricks infuse the facade with character. Natural accents abound, with hardwood spotted gum planks and rumbled sandstone adding depth and warmth to the overall aesthetic.
Inside, craftsmanship takes centre stage, with each bathroom featuring a unique combination of tiles curated to evoke a distinct ambiance. Sleek stone shelves, crafted from benchtop slabs, offer both functionality and elegance.
The lower floor games room exudes a charming ‘speakeasy’ vibe, with a playful mix of colours and textures inspired by the prohibition era. Despite the eclectic mix of elements, the design maintains a sense of balance and harmony.
In summary, this home exemplifies thoughtful design and meticulous attention to detail, demonstrating how diverse materials and finishes can come together to create a truly captivating space.
This home is a testament to meticulous design and careful selection, showcasing an array of materials and finishes that blend seamlessly to create a captivating aesthetic. It is little wonder that this home was award-nominated and a Finalist in its category, it certainly is an inspirational design that has already inspired countless Infinite Homes customers.
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