This property, designed by Gillespie Architects, is unique to Palm Lakes as it is one of few larger stands, with established trees, integrating the residence with its site and natural setting. It is very private (even from the upper story, main bedroom) and is built overlooking a green belt. As one walks in through the front door, there’s an immediate relation to the outdoors, via the large windows. Huge palm trees and lush, green vegetation is visible from almost every room. The living area space is light and airy due to the clerestory windows and double-volume ceiling, allowing a connection with sky, birds and tree tops. One can even follow the path of the stars and moon from the comfort of your pillow! There is a substantial solar system, out of view, on the highest roof that receives sunlight all day. The concertina, folding doors open up, to literally bring the outside inside. A large fever tree over the deck reminds one that, despite the privacy and feeling of being secure, one is, indeed, still in Africa! There is an earthiness to the architecture with much Balau wood, clay tiles and oxidised cement screed floors, natural reed blinds and the changing sky viewed through high glass panes. Abundantly glazed, north facing doors and windows with calculated overhangs creates energy efficient light- and interior temperature levels. The lower two bedrooms are a fair size, with ample built-in cupboards. They share a full bathroom and there’s also another, separate guest toilet alongside. The upper, main bedroom is large, with a dressing room and full, en-suite bathroom. Living- and bedrooms have sliding doors which lead directly onto verandas. A small courtyard with wash-trough and clothesline leads up to the double garage, with cement screed, two windows, electrical sockets and a tap and sink in one corner. Below the main deck is a recessed, shaded deck leading directly onto the grass, with a built-in pizza oven.
