Space a Key Factor

Sunday times 31 January 2010

With Tardis-like qualities, the Shenton Lakes by Dale Alcock manages to fit spacious, light filled rooms – both indoors and out – on to a narrow cottage lot.

“This is a home which effectively demonstrates to anyone looking to downsize that they don’t need to compromise on space or fit out”, says Dale Alcock, managing director of Dale Aclcok Homes.

Entrance to this deceptively roomy design is gained through a feature rendered portal, establishing this home as a sophisticated, modern property with plenty of tricks up its sleeve to maximise space.

“The side entrance has been purposely positioned to deviate from the traditional option, which can often provide a ‘gun barrel’ corridor down the middle of a narrow-lot home,” says Dale. “It allows an excellent proportion of room size for the front lounge, which utilises the full width of the home. As a result the secluded, private entrance negates any long passage and consequently invites guests immediately into the heart of the home.”

Bedrooms have been thoughtfully placed to ensure the open central living area is as large as possible – a feature Dales says is one of his favourites in the Shenton Lakes.

“The centrallised living and kitchen area is the perfect space for year-round entertaining,” he says. “Double sliding glass doors connect the living space to the alfresco area, encouraging natural light and a greater sense of space.”

The kitchen is of a particularly high standard, featuring stylish overhead cupboards, 900mm Blanco stainless-steel hotplate, canopy range hood and under-bench oven. The 30mm CaesarStone benchtops will withstand the toughest households, and look great for many years to come.

There’s no shortage of storage in the Kitchen, and all the drawers feature the Grass Nova Pro European soft-close drawer system. Ceramic wall tiles create a sleek, modern look while the island bench is the perfect spot to sit and chat.

The master suite includes an ensuite and double-sized shower. It even has its own entrance to the alfresco.

“The master suite is another standout room,” says Dale. “When designing the bedroom it was important that it felt luxurious and spacious, particularly as it had to fit within the narrow footprint of the home.

“With direct access to the alfresco allowing light to flow into the room, large walk-in robe and sumptuous ensuite, the master suite functions as a perfect adult retreat.”

The other two bedrooms are a good size and incorporate built-in, double-size robs.

“With this home we wated to demonstrate to anyone looking to downsize that they were not going to have to compromise on room sizes,” says Dale.

According to Dale, one of the design guidelines of the Champion Lakes estate is to encourage community interaction. Shenton Lakes has achieved this by including a deep veranda at the front of the home.

This provides the perfect place to sit back in a comfortable chair and socialise with neighbours or watch the world go by,” he says.

From the moment you view the Shenton Lakes façade it is evident that this home breaks with convention.

“The feature rendered portal to the side entrance, stylish stone work, Colorbond roof and linear lines all contribute to a sophisticated urban style,” Dale says.