Bringing the outdoors in with style

Western Australians lucky enough to snag a stunning oceanfront block will want their home open to the views, with the kinds of unencumbered displays of sun, sea and horizon that give coastal properties their million-dollar price tags.

Along with lots bordering the Swan River or any lush patch of parkland, these parcels are considered cream of the crop for their stunning surrounds, leaving builders quick to point out that any future house should be sure to take advantage.

It’s unsurprising that many homes in premier locations have a balcony so owners and guests can take their meals outside and relax.

Nicheliving Custom Homes Manager Vaughn Isaac said when designing a new home, the views and the balcony should be a strong consideration to maximise bringing the outdoors in.

“A seamless transition from the inside to the outside allows an ideal lifestyle, with great scenery brought in by balconies or decking areas,” he said.

“If the balcony or deck is larger they can be for entertaining, but even the smallest area can still be perfect for reading a book, enjoying wine or simply a small moment of downtime with fresh air.”

Aside from a balcony or decking area, Mr Vaughn described large windows as a staple of any waterfront or park-facing home and said Nicheliving’s Applecross homes were a perfect example.

The five-strong collection is a fresh addition to the builder’s High End brand, an offering of luxury properties in affluent suburbs across Perth.

The Applecross homes certainly make the cut, with their ideal location just off the Canning Highway and a stone’s throw from the Swan River.

To take advantage of the first-rate surrounds, Mr Isaac said large floor-to-ceiling windows established visual presence and permitted a beautiful flow of natural light, providing a relaxing and warm vibe in living areas.

Another feature of the Applecross properties is their upside-down design, a home style that puts the kitchen and living areas on the top floor, rather than the traditional ground-floor arrangement.

Mr Isaac said this design choice was adopted in Applecross to enhance lifestyle and strengthen the relationship between the homes and their surrounds.

“Although not for everyone, upside-down living – as showcased in Applecross – allows buyers to maximise the scenery with large windows that make a stunning visual presence when home alone or entertaining,” he said.

“This is an improvement upon traditional main entertaining areas on the ground levels, where views and outdoor scenery are often limited.”

Though entertaining-based design is popular, Mr Isaac said some people preferred a private parents’ retreat complemented by a small balcony.

He said no matter the arrangement, a well-crafted and architecturally designed home should be designed to take advantage of river or beachfront views, with outdoor areas and balconies great for making the most of a buyer’s lifestyle.

“Having a well-designed balcony or upstairs living area can be highly appealing if located around mature trees, well landscaped areas or in a high suburban position,” Mr Isaac said.

CONTACT Nicheliving, 0430 831 887, www.nicheliving.com.au