This home, designed by the renowned Pender architecture practice was completed in the in the early 1960’s during a time of architectural revolution in Australia. Architects were beginning to adopt trends popular in Europe and America from the Modernist school of International design where simplicity and modular spaces within homes devoid of extraneous embellishment was encouraged.
12 Westbourne Road is an authentic example of this era of geometric design, favouring unpainted solid timber and glass for building and finishing. Detailed, well-crafted joinery and cabinetry is prevalent throughout the home, with several bespoke shelving and storage arrangements. Warm and welcoming polished timber floors and ceilings also help soften the overall bold form. Large floor to ceiling windows with sliding doors open up the home and allow light to penetrate the interior, while encouraging a strong connection to the outside gardens.
The house rests on a large, leafy block surrounded by mature Silky Oaks, Jacarandas and Camellias, among many others dotted about informal, established gardens. The abundance of greenery not only creates privacy, but also attracts variety of rare and native birds, reptiles and frogs creating an idyllic atmosphere accompanied by pleasant bird song.
Oriented to the North, high ceilings and strategic use of thermal massing materials enhance natural heating and cooling of the home. The design encourages cross ventilation and the use of large internal sliding doors to modulate the interior space also increases the energy efficient nature of the home. A grand fireplace not only makes a visual statement, it also warms the lounge area that can be easily sealed in. Enhancements to improve the sustainability and efficiency of the home have been implemented, such as plantation shutters and ceiling fans.
The home was designed to function as family home, generously sized bedrooms all have solid, floor to ceiling built-in’s and the Master bedroom has an ensuite, uncommon in this era. The home wraps around a central pool area and has deep verandahs to both sides for alfresco entertaining or to relax on, evoking a resort-like experience. A separate studio/home-office is fully-serviced and is an inviting retreat for guests or as a work-space overlooking the tranquil pool area.
This home is a masterpiece of modernist design and a fine example of skilled craftsmanship rare in today’s commercially driven construction. Added environmentally-sustainable features and the gardens nurtured for decades, make this home truly something unique and special. Experience “Rosie’s” enchantment for yourself.
This property is proudly marketed by Hunter River Realty Group, for further information call 4934 4111.
