Now For The Good Views

A high-end exterior, an exquisite layout and . . . oh, a great view of the neighbours?

This refined, contemporary residence sits on an 1100-square-metre axe-shaped block, but with neighbours on all corners, privacy was a primary objective for Melbourne custom builder Graeme Alexander Homes.

Achieving an enviable residence is about turning negatives into positives, in this case making the wrong views go away and opening up the design to get the right views.

“This was achieved by blocking affected areas with roof shapes and room placements,” says principal Graeme Alexander. “Careful planting and landscaping channelled the views towards the east, over the infinity-edge pool to the Dandenong Ranges.

“The residence was planned for two parents and three children, with plenty of room for the family to expand into in the future.”

The house boasts two generous living zones, an entertainer’s kitchen that flows to an alfresco room, and a study. The four bedrooms include an east-facing master bedroom upstairs, an area that has the spacious, slightly removed feel of a parental retreat.

“A top-hat roof and highlight windows over the family and kitchen area mean the home is light and warm all year round,” Graeme says. “The high standard of design is typical of our projects.”