Living the dream: How to snare your own slice of spectacular
The Donaldson House in Palm Beach was built in architect Glenn Murcutt's characteristically understated style. Photo: © Anthony Browell
Whether you are fantasising about a mid-life change-up or celebrating a youthful retirement, looking for a sea change or simply in love with luxury, this round-up of sensational dream homes around Australia may prove to be just the inspiration you need.
All the hard work has already been done here. Experts have dealt with extreme locations, researching the best materials or working with legendary architects – so it’s all been done for you. All that’s left is to call the agent and book the movers.
TASMANIA
112 Skeggs Avenue, White Beach
4 beds – 2 baths – space for 12 cars
Agent: Sotheby’s Realty
Price: $3.2 million
Sea Wedge Estate at White Beach on the Tasman Peninsula in the south-eastern corner of Tasmania is a stone’s throw from Port Arthur. This is a property for avid sailors – or those who like at least to pretend. Sit on your timber deck, chart the sea eagles swooping above you and watch the Sydney to Hobart super-maxis sail past your front yard. With an asking price just over $3 million, this sprawling estate boasting maximum privacy is perched on the edge of the ocean and surrounded by three wilderness tracks. But if you like your creature comforts, nothing is spared. Asian-inspired pavilions accommodating 10 are complemented by an orchard, vineyard and organic kitchen garden.
WESTERN AUSTRALIA
38 St Alouarn Place, Margaret River
4 beds – 3 baths – 6 cars
Agent: Mack Hall Real Estate
Price: $5.8 million
Wine lovers have long known of Western Australia’s beloved Margaret River. And if you’re the kind of person who can open a bottle of Grange without blinking, this $5.8 million estate on two hectares might be your next home.
Architect Richard Szklarz has built a crucifix-shaped floor plan that maximises panoramic views across Margaret River, the National Park and the Indian Ocean. A vast cantilevered glass box creates a living space in which the landscape delivers all the art you will need. In the South West Capes Region, Eagle Bay and Yallingup may be more conventional luxury spots but this locale has become a magnet for home owners seeking a greater degree of exclusivity.
NSW
Donaldson House, 54 Bynya Road, Palm Beach
4 beds – 2 baths – 2 cars
Agent: Modern House Estate Agents
Price: $4.1 million
Architect Glenn Murcutt has become the iconic designer for well-to-do house-lovers who want homes that celebrate their Australian environs. The beloved Northern Beaches locale of Palm Beach, which is only an hour from Sydney’s CBD, offers another spectacular Murcutt home that was built only last year in his characteristically understated style. Featuring views of Pittwater and set on a steep slope, the four-bedroom home is accessed by a suspended steel staircase that renders it invisible from the street. With room for two cars, this 166 square metre home offers unparalleled living in the midst of the bush.
QUEENSLAND
Solis, Hamilton Island
3 beds – 5 baths – 2 cars
Agent: Hamilton Island Real Estate
Price: $13-15 million
Perched on the edge of the Great Barrier Reef and on the enormously popular Hamilton Island, this tropical refuge features a design built around flowing water – both man-made pools and the glorious expanse of the Coral Sea – to emphasise a seamless indoor-outdoor lifestyle. Three bedrooms and five bathrooms will accommodate a growing family or provide space for the endless guests angling for an invitation.
QUEENSLAND
The Glass House, 26 Murphy Street, Port Douglas
3 beds – 5 baths – 2 cars
Agent: The Pink Company
Price: $6.75 million
Architect Charles Wright situated this glorious new three-bedroom family home at the pinnacle of Flagstaff Hill. With a huge kitchen and magnificent in-ground pool area, it is perfect for hosting events and offers generous guest accommodation. A flowing floor plan extends from the entry into the reception area, kitchen, media room, massive master suite and guest rooms and onto the decks nestled amid the palms. The views and proximity to Port Douglas offer the perfect blend of practical privacy.
