Wallaby Way, Horseshoe Bay

This client envisioned her forever home, using universal design principals planning not only for her current needs, but for future conditions as well. She asked for a design that is facilitative of these aspects to provide an adaptable housing solution to meet her changing needs and that of her visitors.

With this design philosophy in mind, this home had other challenges to overcome. Situated backing onto the hills encompassing the beautiful bushland of Horseshoe bay, the home is required to adhere to current bushfire and cyclone standards. The use of bushfire resilient design principals and construction materials enabled this home to successfully achieve this requirement. Thanks to intelligent aluminium frame designs and 5mm toughened fire-resistant glass combined with Crimsafe security screens is one of the crucial safety features building in bushfire zones.

The modernist lines of this home greet you at the front with a striking balance of neutral tones and angles set against the Magnetic Island bushland. The impressive entry features a wide wooden staircase leading to custom made timber and glass door. Continuity is pleasing to the eye, as you enter the home you are welcomed with natural light and space with the high raking ceiling which draw the eyes towards the fix pane glass window bringing the bush to the home. Using passive solar design principals, the high ceiling is lined with full length of louvers which allow natural light and ventilation.

This two-bedroom home oozes space in line with accessible living with a calm interior that balances a muted palette with moments of material intensity. The kitchen, a focal point in this home, is all smooth lines and integrated cabinetry with space to support ease of movement and storage draws with wheelchair accessibility at the forefront. Functionality meets elegance with a standout feature in the kitchen being the wheelchair access oven with its retractable door.

The main bedroom is hidden behind a striking, custom-made timber slated sliding door. It oozes space in line with the home’s accessibility design features. The ensuite shows ingenious planning and was achieved with a smart wet room design. This spacious room incorporates a wheelchair accessible shower, toilet and vanity combined with noggins in position for future handrail assistance. This is almost mirrored in the main bathroom incorporating the laundry to support ease of movement.

Situated at the front of the house, yet cleverly isolated, the office is drenched in sunlight which streams through two sets of louvers. This also enhances the daylight and gentle breezes while maximising the views.

In line with adaptable housing the home is fit with wider internal doors and corridors, light switches and door fittings at easy to reach heights with plans for wheelchair access in future.

The workmanship of this home is a standout feature given the challenges presented with its location on Magnetic Island, bushfire and cyclone regulations and demand for accessible housing.