Perched on a breathtaking 45-degree slope overlooking the ocean, the Sandy Beach house is more than a home, it’s a landmark of craftsmanship and innovation.

From its helical staircase to the waterfall-edge pool that seems to spill into the horizon. Surrounded by natural stone and low-maintenance landscaping, it’s a space designed for indulgence and serenity. Every detail of this project was carefully considered. However, for all its serene beauty, it is one of the most challenging builds this Coffs Coast firm has ever undertaken.

‘This home really pushed us,’ says Jason de Groot, builder and Director of JDG Constructions. ‘There was no access from three sides. We cut small tracks into the hill just to enable trades and suppliers to get around the site.’

Despite these obstacles, JDG delivered a home that merges luxury and liveability, from LED feature lighting and sunken lounge spaces to custom joinery and expansive outdoor entertaining zones. At the heart of the residence is a custom-built helical staircase – a sculptural centrepiece that blends form and function. Its graceful curves echo the natural contours of the surrounding land, reinforcing the home’s organic relationship with its environment. 

Large sliding glass doors connect the indoor and outdoor spaces, opening onto an expansive entertaining terrace that offers sweeping views, fresh sea air, and an abundance of natural light. The living areas are designed for both everyday comfort and grand-scale entertaining. A sunken lounge adds visual interest and creates a cosy atmosphere, ideal for intimate gatherings or quiet moments of relaxation. The end result is a modern coastal retreat that captures both panoramic views and the essence of daily comfort.

Built by JDG Constructions in collaboration with Sawtell-based G2 Architects, this residence was recognised in 2024 with the HIA-CSR NSW Custom Built Home Award in the $2.5–$4 million category.

Founded by husband-and-wife duo Jason and Emma de Groot, JDG Constructions has become a trusted name across the Coffs Harbour region. With Jason leading the building operations and Emma handling the client experience and business systems, the company has grown into a tight team of seven. ‘We treat every build like it’s our own,’ he says.

Jason began in the residential building business in 2006 as an apprentice carpenter. Determined and detail-focused, he fast-tracked his four-year apprenticeship into just three, launching JDG Constructions in 2011. ‘I’ve always been a perfectionist,’ he says, ‘because at the end of the day, my name is on every project.’

In 2017, JDG won its first HIA award for a Custom Built Home in the $400K–$600K range. Since then, the business has flourished, delivering bespoke homes across the Coffs Coast and earning a reputation for overcoming complex site challenges without compromising on design.

While Jason remains on the tools and involved in daily operations, Emma’s background in service and project control has been key to building JDG’s client-first ethos. Now balancing her role while caring for their four-year-old son Theodore, Emma continues to influence the systems and client communications that keep projects running smoothly.

‘We’ve built strong relationships with local suppliers and subcontractors who align with how we work,’ Jason says. ‘That mutual respect means we can maintain quality and stay on schedule.’

Running a construction business in today’s climate is no small feat but Jason has some handy advice. ‘Definitely take time to engage a business coach or listen to podcasts,’ he suggests. ‘You should never stop learning, no matter how old you are. Learning how to successfully run a business is something most builders are never taught and from my experience, it’s just as important as the onsite work – if not more.’

While Jason and Emma spend many hours on the job as well as being busy parents, they also understand the importance of a work/life balance. They run their own hobby farm, located just a 40-minute drive from the city and beaches. As a bonus, they have easy access to stunning waterfalls and rivers.

‘Emma and I are really passionate about the farm, but we also find time to go boating with Theodore on weekends,’ Jason says. ‘That gets our minds away from work. I feel it’s essential to have a distraction away from the workplace. Otherwise, you tend to burn out.’

With an idyllic work/life balance and a booming business, Jason and Emma are well-prepared to take on premium custom homes and architectural renovations that challenge conventions and elevate everyday living.

‘Building a home is a big deal,’ Jason says. ‘Our goal is to make the experience as rewarding as the outcome.’

View 2025 Regional Award winners

Materials

• External cladding: James Hardie Fine Textured Cladding 
• Blockwork: Polished face block in Charcoal from ABC Building Products (garage & walkway walls) 
• Architraves: EzyReveal 
• External paint: Dulux Whitsunday Island and Painted Black 
• Internal paint: Dulux Blissful white - SW1H1 & Mount buller - PN2F3 Low sheen
• Joinery: Robe Joinery 
• Doors: Corinthian 
• Benchtops: Smartstone in Petra Grigio
• Joinery: Laminex in Black Birch ply, Natural finish
• Vanities and Basins: ABI Interiors
• Fireplace façade: Smartstone in Petra Grigio

First published on 29 January 2026