A top-level restoration

The West Australian, New Homes, 31st October 2009
By Len Fidlay

From the slate flooring outside the new, wide entrance, to the raised ceiling in the new second storey, this Ocean Reef home has quality written all over it.

A quarter of a century had seen this home become just a little tired and cramped.

The alterations and second storey addition by Dale Alcock Home Improvements has transformed it to a home at the top level in a top-level area.  Owners Chris and Louise Louber are delighted with their ‘new’ home and consider it money well spent.

The downstairs improvements consisted mostly of the removal of a couple of windows which have become doors and makings all the window timber framed.

A new door from a big bedroom leads to the new, expanded alfresco area – it was a gazebo – which has a pizza oven, new pool decking, and a spa.

Outside, the walls are rendered in dark colours but a wide section of feature stone cladding runs the height of the home, bringing it all together.

Inside, a stylish wood and metal staircase leads to the new level with its views of the Indian Ocean. 

The main bedroom and ensuite, with twin sings and a spa bath, have raised ceiling and the walk-in-robe is huge.

Wide-opening doors lead to a spacious balcony from where the ocean can be seen to its best advantage.

A parents retreat is a big living area, again with those ocean views.

“We love it” said Mrs Louber.  “We have more space and uninterrupted views and the home is warm and homely.  It has a nice feel”.  “It was worth the year of hassle as it was being done”.

The judges said: “This second storey addition also included a complete makeover to the external appearance.  Feature stonework to the façade tied in the theme overall.

The internal zoning and quality of workmanship complemented this renovation and addition”.