With advanced technology and show-stopping style, this functional family home is a modern marvel
Situated on tight block in the Melbourne suburb of Eaglemont the design intent of this new Hedger Constructions home was to create a unique and timeless residence with a clean aesthetic that also utilised different materials to create texture, character and a welcoming atmosphere. Catering for a family of 5, the home needed to be minimal in upkeep and have an emphasis on lifestyle enjoyment for family and friends, coupled with functionality.
“As a 4-level home it was important to ensure it didn’t feel imposing” explains Steven Hedger, director of Hedger Constructions. “To achieve this, one floor is located below ground level, and outdoor entertainment spaces including the pool and sunken firepit have been carefully positioned, to ensure privacy for occupants and their neighbours”.
Externally, cladding materials include spotted gum timber, rendered surfaces and Coolum stone. Commercial profile double glazed Rylock windows add clean lines and allow natural light to illuminate the home. Timber lined eaves provide earthy tones to the exterior and contrast beautifully with the Alucobond boxed gutters and clip lock roof. The front entry is designed for wow-factor and includes timber posts, hand-laid stonework, and a spotted gum feature door.
“Upon entry visitors are greeted by the vast lobby with soaring atrium to the upper floor areas” says Steven. Feature pendant lighting bathes the space in a golden hue, illuminating access to the oak floating staircase with glass balustrade and the internal home elevator. Adjacent to the entry is an inbuilt saltwater aquarium to create a tranquil and relaxing atmosphere.
Hydronic underfloor heating warms the entry level and chevron European Oak flooring draws the eye to the open plan kitchen, dining and living space. “Designed for effortless entertaining, all kitchen appliances are integrated, including a cooler draw, and overhead cupboards are electronically operated via home automation” shares Steven.
“A modern aesthetic has been achieved via the custom cabinetry package of white 2 pack finishing with a handless design”. Stone benchtops with a waterfall end island bench provide ample space to combine entertaining and finishing preparations. A generously proportioned butler’s pantry area allows for a practical workspace including a second sink and storage areas.
An example of indoor / outdoor living at its finest, wrap around glazing of the open plan kitchen, dining and living area allow it to extend into an extensive alfresco space. “With Limestone paving, an outdoor woodfire set into a stone surround, BBQ and kitchen unit, and stunning spotted gum ceiling linings, the alfresco area can be enjoyed regardless of season” explains Steven. A reeded glass screen provides privacy for the adjacent spa and pool.
“An internal bar and rumpus area can also be accessed via the alfresco and includes Blackstone finishes, feature stone fireplace with gas heater and a timber lined bulkhead allowing for concealment of key services” says Steven.
The ground floor is completed with a generous guest bedroom and ensuite featuring floor to ceiling tiles, backlit mirrors, and private retreat space. A laundry with ample cabinetry, including drying cupboards, leads to the outdoor services area through a rear door.
The middle level opens with a living zone featuring messmate cabinetry, hydronic heating panels and P50 skirting. The children’s bedrooms are on this floor and are serviced by full ensuites. A stunning bathroom with a freestanding bath, recessed blinds and electric windows add to the functionality of this level.
Contained in the upper level is the master suite incorporating an expansive retreat for privacy and seclusion. Recessed full height doors accentuate space, and an extensive walk-in dressing area with roof access skylight is complemented by a large ensuite including a freestanding bath and venetian plaster.
“All bedroom areas include hydronic panel heating, sensor lighting and a laundry chute” explains Steven. “The ducted vacuum system throughout the home is helps create low maintenance living”.
The basement level contains a 4-car garage with epoxy coated concrete floors. The services section of this floor houses a 2,000-litre water tank, and a 12,000-litre stormwater retention tank with diesel pump backup. This floor also caters to family entertainment, with a cinema room, infra-red sauna, home gym, and cellar.
“A CBUS system and entertainment design were also a key priority for the family” shares Steven. “This innovative technology allows all lights throughout the entire home to be controlled by an app”. Music programming can also be controlled in this manner and is supported by a quality speaker system inside and outside the home. “Security cameras, the front electronic gate and door, pool heating, intercom system, and blinds are also controlled by the system and can be set to timers to minimise energy use and maximise efficiency” explains Steven.
To reduce energy costs a Tesla Solar System has been installed. Double glazed windows provide thermal breakpoints to improve energy efficiency, and the electric opening highlight windows allow for passive ventilation.
Interiors throughout this showpiece home have been thoughtfully designed by Peta Stefanetti of CFS Interiors, creating a tranquil atmosphere. Artfully decorated with crisp, sharp lines, textured natural materials, nooked areas for privacy, and a finishes schedule of outstanding quality, the result provides a cohesive sense of togetherness for the family.
Transcending the traditional, this home skilfully navigates the needs of a large family, providing space for all occupants whilst delivering every modern amenity. “The handover of the finished house was truly a joyous moment; the kids were so excited to explore their new home, and the parents were delighted with the functionality and level of finish” shares Steven. “That’s what drives us forward, we never lose site of the fact we’re building a home to create a lifetime of memories in”.
For more information:
Hedger Constructions
Tel: 1300 291 101
Image credit: Paul West Photography