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911 Coolangatta Road, Lunawanna. Picture: SUPPLIED

VISITORS to Bruny Island are drawn to the seclusion and privacy and that’s exactly what’s on offer in this award-winning hot tub retreat.

Hundred Acre Hideaway provides beautiful accommodation in a peaceful setting and the unique opportunity to soak in spring-fed tubs while enjoying breathtaking views out to the Southern Ocean.

The property has three residences, each fully self-contained and offering their own unique design.

Each features an open-plan living, kitchen and dining area warmed by wood heaters.

Two 250kg gas bottles provide instant hot water, as well as power for cooking and fridges.

The manager’s or main residence is set within a fenced compound for privacy, with the bonus of an outdoor fire bath and a fire pit.

Absolute paradise.

Total tranquillity.

This property is sustainable living at its best. There is no electricity, water or sewerage bills with all electricity manufactured onsite via 3000kW of north-facing solar panels that feed into a new bank of 12 batteries. First National Real Estate consultant Laureen Wood said that environmental lifestyle properties offering business opportunity on this scale were rare.

“This property is much more than an off-grid private and secluded luxury accommodation experience,” she said.

“Recently a flock of Suffolk Ewe sheep were successfully bred and sold at market reaching a premium price.”

This acreage has a permanent spring-fed creek that provides pure water.

The property holds a commercial water licence, as well as riparian rights to this pristine water.

The tubs are a unique feature designed in the style of a Japanese wooden “ofuro” bath – deep with steep sides. The term means “mind like water” or being relaxed and in the flow of life.

The main residence.

Spot for a cuppa.

The highly insulating properties of the Western red cedar tubs will store the heat for many hours and outdoor bathing in hot water provides a unique contrast between the crisp night air.

About 8ha of cleared land is divided into the four irrigated paddocks and a portable electric solar fence can be used to create an extra three paddocks.

As well as grazing stock, this fertile land could support agricultural enterprises such as blueberries or olives.

Five walking trails have been established, one of which is a wild harvest native pepper berry forest that grows along the creek line and is harvested each February. These berries have featured in the Bruny Island Beer Co’s ales.

A 12m x 18m prize winning vegetable garden was created as part of the Mona Victory Gardens challenge.

The enclosed, netted garden features 5m x 18m long beds and contains 41 different vegetables, herbs and trees with a second established 4m x 8m netted garden and orchard also offering an abundance of fresh produce.

Luxurious comfort.

Saddled with responsibility? Hoof it to the Hundred Acre Hideaway.

This remarkable property includes a double carport, machinery shed, storage studio, utility area, hay shed with two stable/barn shelters and chook pen.

This environmental accommodation development established in 2013 is offered for sale ‘walk-in, walk-out’.

The proven past income stream offers a way of life “like no other”.

And the sale of the property includes a professionally designed website with a booking engine.

No.911 Coolangatta Road, Lunawanna is listed with First National Real Estate Hobart & Kingston and priced at “Offers over $1,100,000”.

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Kerryn McKay is selling her funky inner city property tucked away behind Malop St. Picture: Glenn Ferguson

Secret inner city properties hidden in Geelong’s commercial heart offer rare residential gems that are finding favour with buyers.

A renovated Victorian-era terrace surrounded by offices and two funky townhouses behind Big W are among recent listings waiting to be discovered in the CBD.

They’re attracting interest from buyers who want shops, restaurants and the waterfront on their doorstep but don’t want to live in an apartment.

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Kerryn McKay is selling her New York-style, two-bedroom townhouse at 10 Hays Place with price hopes of $595,000 to $650,000.

The quirky limestone home, which includes part of an old pub, comes with two bathrooms, a parking space and a north-facing balcony.

10 Hays Place, Geelong.

The townhouse has limestone brickwork.

Ms McKay can see the bay from her balcony.

Ms McKay said mileage on her car had dropped significantly since moving in nine years ago.

“I have really loved living in the city,” she said.

“I’m a member of the Geelong Yacht Club, I sail there, and I just wander down there.

“If I want to go for a drink at a wine bar or get a coffee with a friend I can just walk.”

McGrath, Geelong selling agent Wayne Baker said the townhouse was a “hidden secret”.

“It reminds me of those quirky little terraces that you find in Europe and the way it utilises the space and every nook and cranny is great,” Mr Baker said.

3/7 Hayes Place, Geelong is listed for $680,000 to $710,000.

The interior has been renovated.

Hodges, Geelong West agent Jeff Begg is selling another townhouse just a few doors down at 3/7 Hays Place, Geelong.

The three-storey, three-bedroom residence, listed for $680,000 to $710,000, has been renovated and has a private outdoor entertainment area.

“I think it’s an alternative to apartments for someone that wants to be in the city but doesn’t want to live on level 35,” Mr Begg.

The living room opens onto a balcony.

“The demand for city homes that are not apartments is very strong.”

A renovated Victorian-era terrace for sale at 115 Yarra Street, Geelong is another rare find in a chiefly commercial strip.

115 Yarra Street, Geelong is surrounded by commercial premises.

Vendors Gerry and Maria O’Brien bought the former office building 19 years ago and rebuilt it from the ground up to create an elegant three-bedroom home with two living areas, an outdoor entertainment area and a double garage.

McGrath, Geelong agent Jim Cross has set a price guide of $1.2m-$1.3m.

The kitchen/dining area has courtyard access.

Natural light floods the living room and main bedroom upstairs.

Mr O’Brien said the couple counted itself lucky to live in the heart of Geelong when it headed out every morning for a walk around the Eastern Gardens and waterfront.

And with the surrounding buildings housing offices, there’s no neighbours to worry about at night.

“We have got double glazing so it’s nice and quiet and, of course, there’s no neighbours after 5.30pm,” he said.

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Super suburb – 21 Ward St, Willoughby.

Three upper north shore suburbs have made it onto the top 10 list of Sydney suburbs with the strongest median house price growth in the 12 months to June.

North Willoughby came in equal third with a growth rate of 28 per cent, while Lindfield and Willoughby shared fifth position with growth of 25 per cent.

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The suburbs’s median house prices are now $2,742,500, $2,930,000 and $2,449,500 respectively, according to data from realestate.com.au.

The group’s chief economist Nerida Conisbee, said there was still no shortage of demand for properties at higher price points in Sydney.

“We are in recession, unemployment is rising and we should be in a situation where house prices catastrophically fall,” she said.

“It continues to surprise me how resilient they are.

“Prices have softened a little bit since March in most markets but year on year, Sydney is still leading the pack.

“A lot of this has to do with how hot the market was leading up to March but the surprising resilience from there is also driven by the stable banking sector, the flexibility in which the banks are dealing with people impacted by COVID-19 and of course by the fact that if you are employed, you are likely to be saving a lot because there is pretty much nothing to do even if you aren’t locked down.”

REA Chief economist Nerida Conisbee.

She said the strongest markets continued to be those priced well above the current house price median of $969,500.

“The most expensive suburb on the top growth list is the north shore suburb of Lindfield which is now getting close to a $3 million median,” Ms Conisbee said.

Donna Fischer, of Stone Real Estate Lindfield, said low interest rates, low stock levels and a steady level of demand, particularly from families looking to upsize in Lindfield were keeping the market steady.

“People recognise that good properties in good areas will hold their own,” she said.

45 Grosvenor Rd, Lindfield.

Ms Fischer is currently marketing a three-bedrooom house at 45 Grosvenor Rd, Lindfield, which has a price guide of $2.1 million to $2.3 million, and she said there was strong interest.

John McManus, of McGrath Willoughby, said he was not surprised to see these areas were doing well despite COVID-19 and the current national economic conditions.

“Prices are holding up okay, but stock levels are still really low,” he said. “Last Saturday was the busiest Saturday we’ve had in a long time (for open homes).”

21 Ward St, Willoughby.

Mr McManus is currently marketing 21 Ward St, Willoughby, a classic Californian bungalow that has undergone a quality renovation and has an auction guide of $3.35 million.

Further up the road in North Willoughby, there is only one property on the market in the entire suburb, according to realestate.com.au.

No. 11 Chaleyer St is a two-bedroom full brick semi on a due-north-facing 408sqm block. It is due to go to auction on Saturday with a guide of $1.4 million.

11 Chaleyer St, North Willoughby NSW REAL ESTATE

Roz Reynolds, of Di Jones Northern Suburbs – Beecroft, said there had been strong interest in the property, which has masses of potential.

“There hasn’t been much available in North Willoughby,” she said.

“It’s a popular area, with lovely streets, and it’s so family orientated.”

The auction will be held on-site at 12.45pm.

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23 Holmwood Ave, Anglesea, sold for $2.3 million in January.

SURF Coast, Bellarine Peninsula and Geelong suburbs have dominated the top regional Victorian property hot spots over the past 20 years.

Prices have climbed as much as $900,000 in the nine towns and suburbs among the 20 areas with the highest price growth since 2000.

Realestate.com.au data shows Anglesea was the region’s top performer, rising 541 per cent.

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The price for a typical house in Anglesea rose from $170,000 in 2000 to $1.08 million in June.

Anglesea was ahead of Barwon Heads (up 539 per cent to $971,250) and St Leonards (from $90,000 to $563,750), while inner city Geelong West (from $117,000 to $690,000) was the highest urban suburb.

Portarlington ($110,000 to $609,250) was the fourth coastal hot spot, while Herne Hill ($91,500 to $520,000), Norlane ($62,000 to $350,000), Newcomb ($83,000 to $450,000) and Newtown ($169,000 to $890,000) also made the list.

Great Ocean Properties, Anglesea agent Ian Lawless said the coastal town vibe surrounded by national park ensured a wide range of buyers competed for the lifestyle location.

“We have first-home buyers, upgraders, we have downsizers from Melbourne, we have people that are moving for a lifestyle, we have a whole lot of different demographic of people all looking for the same properties,” Mr Lawless said.

11 Margate St, Barwon Heads, sold for $2.65 million in February.

“There is access to schools, Geelong and Melbourne. You can get to Torquay and there is a supermarket.

“Even for older people, once you move into Aireys (Inlet) there’s no bowling club, no football club, none of those things that are on offer here.”

Bellarine Property, Barwon Heads agent Christian Bartley said the region’s proximity to Geelong and Melbourne made it increasingly popular with buyers moving in full-time.

While Barwon Heads had a surf culture and St Leonards and Portarlington were in winery country, the towns were an hour and 10 minutes from Melbourne.

It meant they were now busy in winter, especially since the ferry from Portarlington to Melbourne was launched.

“As soon as you see townships increase in winter, it’s not too long for prices to grow,” Mr Bartley said. “Barwon Heads is busy every day of the week.”

67 Waratah St, Geelong West, sold for $1.21 million in June.

A rise in professionals working in or commuting from Geelong had driven the growth in inner suburbs, Hodges, Geelong West agent Marcus Falconer said.

“It’s no surprise that Geelong West is at the top, given the choice of schooling and the proximity to the CBD and the water,” Mr Falconer said.

Harcourts, North Geelong agent Joe Grgic said Geelong offered a value proposition enhanced by location, especially for investors seeking bargains.

“A couple of years ago I had some clients come down from Sydney and they just looked at Geelong as if it was a part of Melbourne. We get the best of both worlds. We’ve got lifestyle, we’ve got value, we’ve got so many great things from schools, shopping, waterfront, all these things and yet the value proposition is evident in comparison.”

TOP REGIONAL VICTORIAN HOT SPOTS FOR PAST 20 YEARS

Source: realestate.com.au

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“Ruckers Hill House” by Studio Bright features a “periscope”. Picture: Rory Gardiner

Innovative houses in Melbourne’s inner north — one of which is crowned with a “periscope” — have emerged ahead of hundreds of other Aussie homes to win prestigious architecture awards.

The two remarkable renovations in Northcote and Fitzroy North took out three of the 10 categories at the 2020 Houses Awards.

But the pads were pipped by a restored “ramshackle 1970s-era house” in the Gold Coast suburb of Miami for the top gong of Australian House of the Year.

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“Cantala Avenue House” by ME on the Gold Coast has been named Australian House of the Year. Picture: Christopher Frederick Jones

“Cantala Avenue House” was described as a “contemporary reinterpretation of the traditional beach shack”. Picture: Christopher Frederick Jones

“Cantala Avenue House”, by architecture firm ME, beat 372 entries to take home the nation’s premier residential architecture prize in the 10th year of the awards run by magazine Houses.

A jury comprising esteemed architects and Architecture Media editorial director Katelin Butler lauded the project as a “contemporary reinterpretation of the traditional beach shack” that “calls on us to reflect on what is truly important and what we essentially need to live well”.

The Gold Coast residence also tied with Northcote’s “Ruckers Hill House” to win the best house “alteration and addition under 200sq m” category.

“Ruckers Hill House” was an equal winner in the best house “alteration and addition under 200sq m” category. Picture: Rory Gardiner

Inside “Ruckers Hill House”. Picture: Rory Gardiner

The “Ruckers Hill House” project involved adapting an Edwardian house. Picture: Rory Gardiner

The Northcote project, by architecture firm Studio Bright, involved restoring and enlarging an Edwardian residence, including by adding new living spaces in a separate garden pavilion.

Jurors described it as “an intriguing alteration and addition” to a period home that “sends a periscope first floor up to take the measure of Melbourne’s ever-changing skyline”.

Other design features highlighted by the jury included a floating metal staircase and “theatrical curtains” used to separate rooms.

“Theatrical curtains” used to separate rooms in the Northcote house. Picture: Rory Gardiner

Jurors described the Northcote project as “intriguing”. Picture: Rory Gardiner

Victoria’s other award winner, “Fitzroy North House 02” by Rob Kennon Architects, took out two categories: best new house under 200sq m and best house in a heritage context.

Jurors noted the new house in a “street full of heritage terrace houses” blended in beautifully thanks to its worker’s cottage-style facade.

Behind it lies a two-storey modernist structure made of concrete, glass and steel, that’s “bathed in sunlight” from two courtyards and a “quasi-terrarium”.

“Fitzroy North House 02” by Rob Kennon Architects looks like a period house, but is actually new. Picture: Derek Swalwell

The Fitzroy North property was deemed best new house under 200sq m and best house in a heritage context. Picture: Derek Swalwell

A total of 80 Victorian projects were shortlisted across all the awards’ categories.

A mix of New South Wales, Queensland and Western Australian projects won the remaining categories.

When naming winners, the jurors took into account how the architecture responded to, or helped negate, crises including climate change and COVID-19, how it contributed to its streetscape and suburb, and how it reflected and shaped Australians’ lifestyles.

They also considered whether the projects were “liveable and functional as well as beautiful”, and innovative and “ambitious in design”.

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“Fitzroy North House 02” is filled with natural light. Picture: Derek Swalwell

The house was one of 80 Victorian projects shortlisted across the categories. Picture: Derek Swalwell

samantha.landy@news.com.au

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1063 Midland Highway, Pontville. For sale by Charlotte Peterswald also known as Marlbrook Etate.

REAL estate agents are reporting strong demand for “lifestyle properties” as an 1800s period home hit the market, while another multi-residence site sold for more $1 million.

Charlotte Peterswald agent George Self said while transactions were down, the past month was so much better than expected amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

“There’s been a huge spike in lifestyle property inquiries,” he said.

“Any lifestyle properties on the market are attracting equal strong interest from interstate and local house hunters.

“Not that surprising with Tasmania right now the best place to be.”

The seven-bedroom, six-bathroom, 100 acre Heimat Chalets farm stay in Black Hills via New Norfolk recently sold after being on the market for 5 months.

The property, advertised for over $1 million, sold for $1.3 million recently.

1063 Midland Highway, Pontville. For sale by Charlotte Peterswald also known as Marlbrook estate.

Another lifestyle property just in Pontville is the 1814 Georgian masterpiece, Marlbrook.

“The gardens are seriously stunning, a feature in themselves and one of its great attributes,” selling agent,” Mr Self said.

“The cottage has been beautifully renovated and is ideal for Air BnB when things return to normal which is a key benefit.

“All period gestures have been impeccably maintained

“It’s something special and an easy 30 minute commute to Hobart.

“Coronavirus has really got people thinking about how they want to live.”

Steeped in convict and early settlement colonial history, Marlbrook, a prominent landmark of the Southern Midlands retains the opulence of its halcyon days.

Along with the two-storey sandstone home, the property comes with a caretaker’s cottage, fully restored to its colonial, yet contemporary, condition.

Mr Self said previous owners have ensured the meticulous and seamless transition of unique heritage features and old-world character with modern upgrades necessary for contemporary living.

Throughout the home, original elements remain in impeccable condition, including stunning woodwork, glass windows, fireplaces, and ornate ceiling cornices.

Manicured hedges and blooming florals are focal features through connecting pathways to create a tranquil and private sanctuary. Established trees and ancient forestry line the boundaries, including a 150-year old Oak.

The estate includes separate paddocks, fruit trees, vegetable gardens, multiple storage sheds, a pond and drinking troughs for livestock.

The 6.75ha property sold for $1,350,000 in March 2015.

He said this prestigious living offers a rare slice of rich Tasmanian heritage history.

meryl.naidoo@news.com.au

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A STRIKING Glitter Strip house that’s listed on Google Maps as a Surfers Paradise tourist attraction has taken out one of the top gongs at the Master Builders Gold Coast Housing & Construction Awards.

White House GC won 2020 Gold Coast House of the Year at the Master Builders Gold Coast Housing & Construction Awards.

White House GC won 2020 Gold Coast House of the Year at the Master Builders Gold Coast Housing & Construction Awards.

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White House GC, by Enclave Constructions, was crowned the 2020 Gold Coast House of the Year at a live-streamed awards ceremony on Friday night.

Inspired by the original mansion of the governor of Alabama, and recalling the homeowner’s family connections with Indonesia, the project impressed the judges with its Corinthians columns, stone gates that were delivered in pieces from Indonesia and grand marble staircase as its centrepiece.

White House GC won 2020 Gold Coast House of the Year at the Master Builders Gold Coast Housing & Construction Awards.

The project took 17 months to build including demolition of the former 1960s-era home.

The White House GC was also given the nod for the best individual home over $2 million.

Hutchinson Builders took out Project of the Year with their luxurious multi-residential Northcliffe Residences, perched on the Surfers Paradise beachfront.

Hutchinson Builders took out Project of the Year at the Master Builders Gold Coast Housing & Construction Awards with their multi-residential Northcliffe Residences, perched on the Surfers Paradise beachfront.

Northcliffe Residences, perched on the Surfers Paradise beachfront.

The panel was drawn to the degree of difficulty in gaining access for deliveries, and the quality of finish throughout the building, which also took home the top gong in the Residential Building (high-rise over 3 storeys) over $20 million category.

The winner of the 2020 Gold Coast President’s Award was the Erskine 225 by Hotondo Homes.

The Erskine 225 is a compact four-bedroom, two bathroom home, with an open plan kitchen, dining and lounge overlooking a patio with pool.

The winner of the 2020 Gold Coast President’s Award at the at the Master Builders Gold Coast Housing & Construction Awards was the Erskine 225 by Hotondo Homes.

Master Builders Gold Coast regional manager John Duncalfe congratulated the winners across all 49 categories.

“The diversity and quality of building work across the Gold Coast, particularly during this time of uncertainty, is testament to the resilience of our local industry,” Mr Duncalfe said.

“With projects like the stunning Ashmore City Shopping Centre refurbishment, Helensvale Homeworld extension, and Bond University Health Sciences and Medicine Extension also among the award winners, it’s fantastic to see our local communities benefiting from quality workmanship, and cutting-edge design.

All Gold Coast winners:

Construction

• Health Facilities up to $20 million – Tomkins Commercial & Industrial Builders Pty Ltd T/A Tomkins for Homeworld Helensvale (Helensvale)

• Education Facilities up to $10 million – Condev Construction Pty Ltd for Somerset Design Centre (Mudgeeraba)

• Education Facilities over $10 million – ADCO Constructions Pty Ltd for Bond University Health Sciences and Medicine Extension (Robina)

• Retail Facilities over $5 million – Tomkins Commercial & Industrial Builders Pty Ltd T/A Tomkins for Homeworld Helensvale (Helensvale)

• Tourism and Leisure Facilities up to $10 million – Alder Constructions Pty Ltd for Dreamworld Sky Voyager (Coomera)

• Tourism and Leisure Facilities over $10 million – Halcyon Constructions QLD Pty Ltd for Halcyon Greens Lifestyle Community Leisure Facilities (Pimpama)

• Commercial Building up to $5 million – Lory Group Pty Ltd for Computer Road Stage One Industrial & Commercial Facility (Yatala)

• Commercial Building $5 million – $50 million – ADCO Constructions Pty Ltd for Mazda Showroom Southport (Southport)

• Industrial Building up to $5 million – S E Q Construction Group Pty Ltd for The Shed (Miami)

• Industrial Building over $5 million – Lory Group Pty Ltd for Cuthbert Drive Industrial Estate (Yatala)

• Residential Building (high-rise over 3 storeys) up to $20 million – Rawcorp Pty Ltd for Stanhill (Chevron Island)

• Residential Building (high-rise over 3 storeys) over $20 million – J Hutchinson Pty Ltd T/A Hutchinson Builders for Northcliffe Residences (Surfers Paradise)

• Community Accommodation for Aged Care and Nursing Homes – TF Woollam & Son Pty Ltd T/A Woollam Constructions forJapara Robina Rise (Robina)

• Refurbishment/Renovation up to $750,000 – Goris Co Projects Pty Ltd for Berkeley on the Beach Pool Refurbishment (Surfers Paradise)

• Refurbishment/Renovation over $750,000 – Alder Constructions Pty Ltd for Ashmore City Shopping Centre (Ashmore)

• Excellence in Workplace Health & Safety – Jakaspa Pty Ltd T/A Coastal Asbestos Removal for Asbestos Removal Management System (Burleigh Heads)

Housing

• Home Renovation/Remodelling Project up to $275,000 – Eclat Building Co Pty Ltd for Blantyre Farm House (Blantyre)

• Home Renovation/Remodelling Project $276,000 – $575,000 – Symcorp Building Services Pty Ltd T/A Symcorp for Project Sorrento (Bundall)

• Home Renovation/Remodelling Project $576,000 – $1 million – Ingenious Homes Pty Ltd for Broadbeach Waters

Residence (Broadbeach Waters)

• Home Renovation/Remodelling Project over $1 million – Romark Design Constructions Pty Ltd T/A Romark for Almogim (Sanctuary Cove)

• Display Home $251,000 – $350,000 – Sunfox Pty Ltd T/A Hotondo Homes Gold Coast North for Erskine 225 (Coomera)

• Display Home $351,000 – $450,000 – Metricon Homes Qld Pty Ltd for Santorini 28 (Coomera)

• Display Home over $551,000 – Sanctuary 28 Projects (QLD) Pty Ltd for The Corner House (Broadbeach)

• Individual Home up to $250,000 – Transpire Constructions Pty Ltd for Avoca 185 – Moreton Façade (Coomera)

• Individual Home $251,000 – $350,000 – Remiche Pty Ltd for The Glenbar Residence (Tamborine Mountain)

• Individual Home $351,000 – $450,000 – Quadriant Developments Pty Ltd for Revelstoke by Quadriant (Arundel)

• Individual Home $451,000 – $550,000 – Stroud Homes Brisbane South Pty Ltd for Wildflower 300 Classic (Stockleigh)

• Individual Home $551,000 – $650,000 – Bradwell Constructions Pty Ltd for The Randall (Ashmore)

• Individual Home $651,000 – $750,000 – Clamroc Constructions Pty Ltd for Kaja (Broadbeach Waters)

• Individual Home $751,000 – $950,000 – Resolve Logistics Pty Ltd T/A Resolve Construction for 340 Serenity (Helensvale)

• Individual Home $951,000 – $1.25 million – PJH Constructions Australia Pty Ltd for Bajo El Sol (Burleigh Heads)

• Individual Home $1.26 million – $2 million – Enterprise Constructions Pty Ltd for Clear Island Waters Residence (Clear Island Waters)

• Individual Home over $2 million – Enclave Constructions Pty Ltd for The White House GC (Surfers Paradise)

• Best Use of Sloping Sites – Gala Homes Pty Ltd for Dielacher & Dunlop Residence (Burleigh Heads)

• Medium Density up to 3 Storeys – 2 to 5 Dwellings up to $1 million – Australasian Homes Pty Ltd T/A Valcon Homes for Via Roma (Surfers Paradise)

• Medium Density up to 3 Storeys – 2 to 5 Dwellings over $1 million – Evbuilt Pty Ltd for Mermaid Beach Units (Mermaid Beach)

• Medium Density up to 3 storeys – over 5 Dwellings – Luban Homes Pty Ltd for Drury Lane (Southport)

Specialty

• Best Use of Steel Frame Housing – DTL Constructions Pty Ltd for Edgecliff Cove (Hope Island)

• Best Residential Bathroom – Mark Underwood for Reflections (Broadbeach Waters)

• Best Residential Kitchen – Enterprise Constructions Pty Ltd for Clear Island Waters Residence (Clear Island Waters)

• Best Residential Swimming Pool – JB Pool Construction Pty Ltd for Bayview Walk (Sanctuary Cove)

Individual

• Residential Trade Contractor of the Year – Goldtrim Tiling Pty Ltd for Chainey Duplexes (Miami)

• Ron McMaster Memorial Award for Excellence in Craftsmanship – PJH Constructions Australia Pty Ltd for Bajo El Sol (Burleigh Heads)

• Apprentice of the Year – Dillan Morales from Goldtrim Tiling

• Rising Star – Tim Sayce from Kai Konstruct

• Women in Building – Jingjing Song from Luban Homes

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Daniel and Daina Lindsay with their children Maija 7 and Sands 5 in the main street of Stirling on July 31, 2020. Stirling’s just done well in the latest valuer generals figures. Picture Matt Turner.

ADELAIDE’S real estate market has demonstrated its strength and resilience in the face of significant COVID-19 pressures, with metropolitan house values dipping less than one per cent over the past quarter and 12 months.

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Three western suburbs – Glenelg East, Somerton Park and West Beach – held strong in the face of coronavirus to record median value growths of more than 30 per cent. And regional SA recorded an “exceptional” average growth of 3.16 per cent.

According to the latest Valuer-General’s figures for the June quarter, Adelaide’s metro house value dropped just 0.52 per cent to $477,500.

Metro home values also coincidentally dropped by the same amount on the same quarter last year. Statewide, the median house value climbed by 0.47 per cent over both the past 12 months and quarter to $432,000.

Real Estate of South Australia president Brett Roenfeldt, pictured, praised SA’s performance considering the impact coronavirus was having on other segments of the economy.

“It is sensational news that the median price in this quarter is only just down from the record high set in the last quarter of 2019,” he said.

“It demonstrates the confidence South Australians have in investing in the state – there are a lot of positives to be taken out of these figures.”

Sales numbers were down, however, with metropolitan Adelaide recording 3526 sales for the quarter, down significantly from 3919 the previous quarter, and down almost 500 on the 4016 sales recorded for the same quarter last year.

“These figures reflect the fact that stock levels are low and that has had a major impact on the numbers we are seeing,” Mr Roenfeldt said.

Adelaide apartments also performed strongly – up 10.17 per cent for the quarter, and 24.7 per cent for the year to a median of $520,000.

Of suburbs to have recorded at least 10 sales for the June quarter both this year and last, the greatest value growth was found in Glenelg East, where house values increased 53.34 per cent to $940,000.

“Looking at the list of 484 suburbs in the figures, 208 of them – or 42.9 per cent – have shown growth in their average median house value over the past 12 months (and) 103, or 21 per cent, of those suburbs have shown growth in excess of double digits,” Mr Roenfeldt said.

Regionally, Renmark was the top performer, with values up 26.92 per cent for the quarter, and 28.16 per cent for the year to a median of $330,000.

“Regionally, we are looking at an average median house value increase of 3.16 per cent – that’s exceptional, with all the COVID-19 factors we’ve had to contend with,” Mr Roenfeldt said. Holdfast Bay was the state’s strongest-performing council area over the past 12 months, with house values up 17.24 per cent to $850,000 – 15.65 per cent higher than last quarter.

“If stock level remains roughly where it is now, and COVID has no further impact other than basically what’s happening in SA right now, I would expect that these figures would be even better next quarter,” Mr Roenfeldt said.

Dan and Daina Lindsay have recently bought in Stirling – which is up 23.76 per cent – through Harris’s Arabella Hooper and hope the leafy hotspot’s value continues to rise. “It’s a great place to live and in the long term we can only see values increasing,” Mrs Lindsay said.

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An artist’s impression of the new ‘Elaine’, to be the Point Point home of Atlassian co-founder Scott Farquhar and his wife, Kim Jackson.

The billionaire co-founder of software giant, Atlassian, Scott Farquhar, has revealed radical plans to replace the fusty old Fairfax mansion he bought for $71m in 2017 with a new $37m designer residence.

The new three-storey Point Piper home, which will have a rooftop tennis court, 20-metre lap pool and a basement gym, is to be designed by the Sydney-born architect Carl Pickering with his partner Claudio Lazzarini, of Rome-based Lazzarini Pickering Arhitetti.

The plans, lodged with Woollahra Council this afternoon, show a home that’s very different from the current 1863-era ‘Elaine’, though key heritage element remains: a sitting room — which will be encased in glass.

And an urban design consultant, Russell Olsson, has made a bold prediction: “This design has the potential to be awarded every major architectural award in Australia and to become a new architectural icon.”

If approved, it’s expected to take up to three years to build.

And this $37m investment — likely to be far more given costs tend to blow out — is set to dwarf the $100m cost of the neighbouring home of his co-founder, Mike Cannon Brookes, which set the Australian house price record last year.

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The old ‘Elaine’. Picture by Damian Shaw

A spokeswoman from Woollahra Council confirmed the estimated cost of the proposed build.

That Farquhar and his wife, Kim Jackson, wish to dispose of most of the existing building comes as no surprise, having been one of few journalists to have ever been inside.

Ken Jacobs of Christies — who made the groundbreaking sale in 2017 — gave me an exclusive tour in early 2016 advising: “It’s not much inside … the interiors aren’t what it’s about.”

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Farquahar said in a statement today: “For Kim and I, this will be a beautiful new family home.

“But more than that, it is a chance for Sydney and Australia to show the world that we believe in great design, that we care for the environment and that we balance that with preserving the very best of our heritage.”

The double sitting room, a heritage item, will be retained.

Six architects had submitted designs for the new home, five of them based in Australia.

But Farquahar and Jackson selected Pickering’s submission. The firm also has an office in Sydney.

Apart from the sitting room, other elements to be retained are the basement, the stables, along with the trees and green space.

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And, most importantly, this new DA replaces one approved in 2015 for the 6986-square-metre waterfront estate that would have carved it up four separate DA-approved homes.

The approved plans had included two waterfront homes directly in front of the old mansion, which would have partially obstructed the magnificent harbour view — not to mention blocking access to the waterfront.

The new home is set to have extraordinary harbour views, though specific details such as the number of bedrooms and bathrooms are being withheld by Farquhar, citing privacy and security issues.

The sitting room is set to be encased in glass.

Farquahar and the architects worked closely with leading heritage consultants ahead of lodging the plans, which were Two-and-a-half years in the making.

Experts had advised it was not a high order heritage building and the house is not on the State Heritage List.

Pickering’s design was designed around the garden and the heritage-listed trees, which include a Cook Pine, Norfolk Island pine, Bunya Pine, a Camphor Laurel and a Port Jackson fig.

Pickering said: “The design brings together the most important heritage elements in the site, the gardens, trees and lawns with the double sitting room, which is the most significant remaining space in the existing house.”

Planning consultant Brett Daintry said: “This is the best and last opportunity to save the site as one and reinstate it as a grand estate that complements its neighbours Fairwater, Redleaf, St Brigids estates and Blackburn Gardens.”

Leading landscape designer, Myles Baldwin, will design the new gardens.

And Howard Tanner, the former chair of NSW Heritage Council, advised: “The new DA proposes a new house of extraordinary design and opens up a new era for the site as a grand estate.

“The house has been poorly altered over time, and even more so with the 2015 DAs, which completely alter any sense of the 19th century residence.”

The prominent landscape designer, Myles Baldwin, will redesign the gardens, which lead down to Seven Shillings Beach.

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Warehouse living at 3/6 Westfield Street, Northcote.

An expat couple secured a Northcote warehouse conversion in an off-market sale while still living in the US.

The pair picked up 3/6 Westfield St for $1.11m in a sale style that has flourished during the coronavirus lockdown.

“They bought their home from the comfort of their lounge room in America,” Industry Insider director Andrew Date said.

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The Northcote warehouse sold for $1.11m in the off-market deal.

Mr Date added the buyers, who have a son and plan to have another child, would rent the Northcote property out until they moved back to Melbourne in a few years’ time.

It’s part of a trend that first emerged during the initial lockdown period and continued amid the second wave.

“There are record levels of off-market sales,” Mr Date said.

The buyer’s advocate said 60 per cent of his transactions have been off market, well above his pre-COVID-19 average of 20 per cent.

“One of the main reasons right now (that) stock levels are so low is because people are fearful of having strangers through their home,” Mr Date said.

The buyers might have been in LA, but that didn’t stop Industry Insiders director Andrew Date from celebrating. Pic: Supplied.

He said sight-unseen sales would likely become more common due to low mobility and heightened vendor fears.

Barry Plant Glenroy agent Roy Khoder said there was starting to be “a lot of those sales happening”.

Mr Khoder sold 128 Evell St, Glenroy for $1.33m without conducting any inspections of the property.

No. 128 Evell Street, Glenroy sold without a single inspection.

The three-bedroom house, which sold for the first time in 45 years, is expected to be leased out before being developed.

“Buyers will always take a drive past but don’t require an inspection — it’s become very common that we sell properties that way.”

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jack.boronovskis@news.com.au

@jackboronovskis

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