But it’s the striking custom-made barn style garage doors that commands the eye. Supplied by J&B Doors from Kingscliff, they have Cedar VJ panelling with a Cutek Walnut finish.
Then there is the hardwood rail fence to add to the rustic picture. ‘You could actually put a horse in that yard and it wouldn’t look out of place,’ Dean says.
Black awnings enhance the front further, providing shading and more depth to offset the high gable.
Switch to the rear and there is another striking timber feature, this time recycled Ironbark beams from Kennedy’s in Brisbane, supporting the gable roof of the treated Spotted Gum outdoor deck.
The structure, with its powder-coated black stainless steel brackets, looks like it has always been there and always will be. This is a home that breathes and takes advantage of the area’s beautiful climate, with tall, glass, black-framed doors with colonial bars (Vantage by Windowmaker) opening on to the back entertainment and pool area, allowing the air and light to pour in.
The same kind of doors open onto the front deck from the downstairs bedroom. From the front door, a two-metre wide hallway flows straight through to the kitchen, and open plan living area.
This flow is unimpeded by the open American Oak staircase, with black stringer handrails from local company Pottsville Forge. The original design used a closed staircase but Dean convinced the clients to go with an open one so you can see through to the rear of the home. ‘That’s the thing I really enjoy with building, it’s a dynamic process where you’re always shooting ideas and working out the best options.’
Upstairs, where there are bedrooms and another living area, louvre windows allow the air to be directed, even when it is raining. Dean matched the flooring to the staircase and the warmth of the popular pre-finished oak is complemented by the stone work of the feature fireplace.