Luxury looks now on the must-have list

Beyond the size of the property, the number of rooms and the flow of the spaces, it’s those little extras that can make all the difference to the quality of a home.

Those features that we once considered a luxury – double-glazed windows, a chef’s kitchen and the latest technology – have worked their way onto the “must-have” list of many potential homeowners in Canberra.

Adhami Pender Architecture’s Nabil Adhami says it’s these inclusions that add to a home’s personality.

“In a custom house design, the extras are very important and in some respect reflect the individuality of our client for each project,” Adhami says.

Peter Blackshaw Gungahlin agent Luke McAuliffe says these extras can help close the deal if buyers are choosing between two homes.

“Certain inclusions and additions can definitely add value to a home,” McAuliffe says.

“The value of the inclusions is not necessarily based on cost, it is often determined by the emotional pull these have for potential buyers attracted to the home.

“Having said that, if you are considering making some upgrades to your current property in preparation for sale you don’t want to overcapitalise on your inclusions – you won’t always make your money back.”

The items worth investing in will largely depend on whether you’re hoping to make a profit, choosing them for yourself, and, if so, how long you plan on living at the property.

YOLK interior designer Nicola Smith says her clients tend to invest in these luxury items if it’s going to be their “forever home”.

Whether you’re buying or building a home with a long-term view, McAuliffe suggests choosing inclusions that will make everyday living more comfortable and convenient.

“Once you have covered the basics, consider what additional extras your family will get most benefit from for the longest period of time,” McAuliffe says.

Double-glazed windows are a huge drawcard, Luton Properties director Richard Luton says. He says the difference they can make to both the warmth and noise levels is worth the investment.

Adhami says double glazing is also on the top of his “must-have” list.

“When I started practising 15 years ago, single glazing was the norm. However, the industry has now moved its production to double glazing generally, which has resulted in more affordable products,” Adhami says.

A movement towards healthy living and energy efficiency has dictated many of these trends.

Smith says long-term environmental impact and running costs are some of the major considerations her clients make.

Canberra’s climate also calls for a high standard of heating and cooling. Luton says hydronic heating has become the “Rolls-Royce” of heating, while McAuliffe says many of us still have a soft spot for the roaring fireplace.

“There are a lot of homes being built with a fireplace included as a focal point in the room, rather than a primary source of heat,” McAuliffe says.

“Advancements in technology mean we can now enjoy the gorgeous warmth and ambience without the mess or smell.”

The kitchen’s migration towards the centre of entertaining spaces, rather than its traditional position in a closed-off corner, has seen it become the jewel of the home with inclusions playing a major role.

The island bench has become the social space for a diverse range of activities, from supervised homework to casual meals, and this has informed design, Adhami says.

“[The kitchen should include] good quality European appliances that support the way you cook, the flexibility to entertain for small and large groups, the walk-in pantry, the indoor outdoor flow of space and the outdoor entertaining alfresco is almost a must for these projects,” Adhami says.

And there is always room for a coffee machine.

Most importantly, Adhami said you should think about how you want to live and select the inclusions that will support it, whether that’s a hobby room or the latest technology – make sure you have room for the things that matter the most to you.

Added extras for easy living

• The drop zone – “This features in all of our projects,” Adhami Pender Architecture’s Nabil Adhami says. “A place for bags, wallets, keys, shoes, mail, coats, hats and anything a family needs to pick up and go on a daily basis or drop down as you enter the house.”
• Smart wiring – “Every house these days has an IT hub, and in some cases wiring that controls lighting, appliances, ventilation, sound system, security etc,” Adhami says. “And connectivity to the system through apps controlled from your mobile device anytime, anywhere.”
• Utility room – “This is becoming more of a norm for Canberra families,” Adhami says. “In some cases the organisation of the space will support a hobby, like bike riding, outdoor living, water sports, hiking etc, and allows the owner to pack on short notice. Our lives are busy, and people like to be organised to maximise play time.”
• Feature facade – A strong facade can enhance the home’s street appeal, which is particularly important for sellers. “Gone are the days of two windows and a front door,” Peter Blackshaw’s Luke McAuliffe says. “Builders and homeowners alike are opting for eye-catching facades with different textures, colours and feature lighting. This increases street appeal and excites purchasers before they have entered the front door.”

Keeping it sustainable

An array of functional and decorative inclusions allow this Narrabundah home to be as stylish as it is environmentally friendly.

The combination proved to be a hit with Canberrans last week when it took out the People’s Choice category at the ACT Architects Awards.

Matt and Laurie McDonald, above, worked with Adhami Pender Architecture’s Nabil Adhami to create their family home. A chef’s kitchen, a seamless flow for entertaining and a solar-passive design were among their list of must-have inclusions.

Despite the home’s absence of mechanical heating and cooling, its orientation keeps the home comfortable throughout the year. On colder days a feature wood fireplace is put to good use.

A greywater system is used to water the hedges and fruit trees – 10,000 litres of rainwater is also on standby for the drier months. These sustainable inclusions along with solar panels and solar hot water keep running costs to a minimum.

Proving that a sustainable home can come in a stunning package, the home is beautifully finished.

An entertainer’s kitchen at the heart of the home combines feature tiles, timber details and pendant lighting, while the grand staircase mixes glass, metal and recycled timber rafters from the site’s original home.

A chicken coop, vegie gardens, a wine cellar, swimming pool and separate studio accommodation for guests are among the home’s features.

Attention to detail

7 La Perouse Street, Griffith
$2.5 million-plus

High-end finishes and state-of-the-art features are concealed behind the understated facade of this charming 1920s home.

The four-bedroom property was completely renovated and extended nine years ago, with every detail carefully considered.

The kitchen is complete with a suite of Miele appliances including a double oven, double dishwasher and induction hotplates. It also features a Vintec wine fridge and a ZIP hot and cold filtered water dispenser.

A large butler’s pantry doubles as a second kitchen with extensive cupboards and bench space.

The formal and informal living rooms are north-facing and feature Spanish marble fireplaces. Cedar doors open these spaces up onto sandstone terraces.

All four bedrooms include built-in wardrobes, quality carpet and underlay. The lavish master suite is segregated and features large picture windows, a walk-in wardrobe, an en suite with a double vanity and access to its own terrace overlooking the main entertaining area.

The alfresco spaces include shade sails and a fountain and lead the way to a large, sparkling lap swimming pool. They are surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens.

In-slab heating, double-glazed windows, a study with built-in cabinetry and chandeliers are just a few of the other inclusions.

All of this is just 400 metres from the heart of Manuka.

Number 7 La Perouse Street, Griffith, is for sale via expressions of interest, closing at 5pm on Thursday, July 14. Phone Luton Properties Manuka agents Richard and Sophie Luton on 0418 697 844 or 0410 750 413. EER: 5. Inspect: Tuesday and Saturday, by appointment only.