Above and beyond
The height of luxury in a private Minden enclave, this bespoke residence harmonises innovative design with the tranquillity of its lush surroundings.
words JO FERRIS
Life has a habit of moving the goalposts. Designed as this couple’s forever home, new priorities now invite someone else to change their own destiny. A beautiful home, in an exquisite setting – cocooned in a sheltered Minden valley – amid a private community.
Tucked at the end of a small enclave, the house stands above its neighbours – seemingly built into the hillside, with its bush backdrop of pongas and natives.
Towering banks envelop the home amid nature and birdsong; deceptive size and scale that includes a playground lawn.
Given the extent of lush gardens, it’s hard to believe this house was completed just five years ago. The owners wanted a future-proofed, timeless look. Without that knowledge, it’s easy to overlook how cleverly this home facilitates flexible living. A significant two-level residence – with a 2.7 metre stud throughout – it is designed with generous, wide passages and doorways for proportion convenience and a lift for access upstairs.
Colin Davis of Davista Architecture changed nothing in the owners’ vision for their family hub, merely playing with elements elsewhere to perfect the final flair. Built by 90 Degrees Construction, the attention to detail is flawless. The kitchen and dining hub is the centre of entertainment. Black cabinetry features a specially-mixed double lacquer – matte not gloss. Black engineered Caesarstone covers the bar-stool island, while an interesting finish of Dekton in the scullery adds a unique contrast.
The splashback is also purpose made – another single sheet that mimics smashed antique glass.
Dining caters for crowds; its soaring ceiling and bespoke lighting just one of this home’s many talking points. Linked with a mezzanine lounge above, a glass balustrade allows connection below, while ensuring a seamless view of scenery through the ascending wall of glass.
A kitchenette increases the convenience for family and guests, while bedrooms either side enjoy personal space.
Tone and texture dominate this home’s intrigue – highlighted with high-end Italian porcelain floor tiling in the family hub and passage. It was selected specifically for endurance and the deceptive look of dark oak timber.
An office downstairs could double as another bedroom, while the master retreat revolves around romantic privacy. A waterfall garden framed by a full-length window embraces nature, but the ensuite is pure indulgence. An oval bath for two, picture glazing framing a tropical garden and outdoor flow to enjoy the birdsong.
Detail and luxury underpin every aspect of this secluded haven. Surprise and innovation are everywhere – a home for today, designed for the future.
8 Minden Hill Lane, Minden
