Nestled in the foothills of Buderim, this architectural masterpiece is reminiscent of mid-century modern design. Despite being an unusual style for this coastal region, the design harmoniously connects to the sprawling parcel of land and its forestry backdrop.
Clean lines, an open floor plan, innovative structural elements and integration with the surrounding environment – this home ticks all the boxes for the famed architectural style, which has left an enduring impact on the design world since it was popularised around the 1950s.
The Buderim home is the result of a collaboration between award-winning builders SX Constructions, Aboda Design Group and Kate Cooper Interiors.
SX Constructions owner Simone Essex says the project embodies a timeless design.
“It is a contemporary interpretation of a mid-century modern home with natural, earthy elements,” she tells salt.
“It is a little more classic and rustic than the traditional retro style.”
Simone’s words paint a vivid picture: “Featuring a diverse range of natural materials including limestone, quartzite, French oak and Abodo timbers, this home feels natural and earthy despite its sophisticated edge, creating beautiful contrast against the glass, steel and black aluminum cladding.
“The client brief centred on a low-maintenance home. The black batons on the walls are an aluminum product, which means no painting ever,” Simone says.
“They can literally be hosed down. Another interesting feature is the outdoor timber ceiling.”
The ceiling is created from Abodo Vulcan cladding, which is a kiln-dried, thermally modified wood. The product’s golden tone is designed to grey with age. The board is also designed not to rot, crack or split.
“It’s cool and edgy. The timber and stone create a homely feel,” Simone says. “There is also that connection to the environment with the biophilic design elements.”
In its simplest form, biophilia is the hypothesis that humans crave a connection to the natural environment. Biophilic design focuses on fulfilling that desire through architectural and style elements. To fit the bill, natural products, as well as smart and conscious landscaping, have been incorporated into the Buderim home.
Landscape architect Marc Conlon worked closely with the builders to establish native gardens and an outdoor entertainment space. The re-tiled renovated pool edges a rendered pool house, complete with timber accents, a stylish black kitchen space, integrated speakers and, for some added fun, a kegerator.
The wall of the pool house also plays a role in the property’s floodwater mitigation system. The site’s terrain and natural water flow called for the integration of these measures.
“It was a complex site in terms of managing the potential overland flow of flood waters. Gullies were created, and a flood bund was incorporated into the landscape and building design, redirecting water flow into the dry rock creek beds,” Simone explains. “By engaging such experienced designers, landscapers and builders, the owners could create a space that functions successfully and looks great. When designers and builders collaborate, that’s when the magic happens.”
And upon walking through the front door and into the home, there is more magic to discover.
The interiors are captivating, melding the mid-century design with luxe features. Each of the five bedrooms has a walk-in robe and ensuite, complete with a stunning honed limestone tile.
In the master bathroom, handmade glazed Moroccan-look tiles by Ceramica Senio take centre stage, while quartzite polished stone benchtops are an added feature in all bathrooms.
European oak floors sprawl throughout the home, adding to its warmth. Other internal features include a temperature-controlled wine cellar, a state-of-the-art media room and Art Deco wall lights.
A Seguin wood-burning fireplace sits at the heart of the home, centred within a unique stone accent wall. The Barrimah stone cladding is constructed of limestone and sandstone and is installed in a dry-stacked method.
“It is an intentional installation method… installed without grout to give that appearance of a handmade rustic product,” Simone says. “The guest studio ensuite features handmade glazed trapezoid tiles that are installed the same way.”
These features add to the understated luxury feel that reverberates through every inch of this beautiful home.
This home will feature in the Sunshine Coast and Wide Bay Housing Awards Custom Home over $1.5 million category. To find out more, visit hia.com.au/awards-and-events/awards/sunshine-coast-and-wide-bay