Sassy beach house style

There really is nothing like waking to the sound of waves breaking onshore, grabbing the surfboard, kids and dogs, and being on the beach in five minutes, or why not take a bike ride along meandering pathways which run parallel to the coastal contours.

From the street, the aptly named At The Beach, is an absolute tribute to its seaside location. It immediately oozes character with stately palms, frangipani, buddhas belly bamboo, cycads and heliconias, a nod to Balinese-style gardens, also the rock-stone water feature curving river-like around the gardens, and merging into a waterlily-topped pond with fish – a haven for native birds and frogs.

Open the arty custom door made from recycled hardwood, admire the bright white interior with vaulted ceilings, banks of high glass panes, plantation shutters and louvres throughout the multiple living and dining areas which stretch the width of the residence, and on the northerly side look out to the gardens. Note the wood-burning fireplace and how natural light shadow dances across seemingly endless polished honey-hued blackbutt flooring.

The heart of the home is the galley-style kitchen with blue/black granite-topped white cabinetry including a semi-island/breakfast bar. There’s a commercial-grade oven with gas-burner cooktop, roomy pantry and all the bells and whistles a serious cook would expect – even slide away windows plus doors off the dining area, opening to expansive alfresco terraces.

Designed for all reasons and seasons, especially for a family who love life, and entertaining, there are lounge and dining spaces, the latter being extra popular in the cooler months, for relaxing near the large fireplace accompanied by waves and choruses from the native birds.

Easy-care gardens afford absolute privacy on the east and south sides. They are a stunning combination of mulberry, tamarillo, peach, and bananas, integrated with bleeding hearts, dedicated vegetable garden and a water feature.

Generosity of space continues in the north-east wing better known as a serious slumber zone. Four large bedrooms have barn doors and built-in-robes. The master looks out to the pond and courtyard with seating, and has an on-trend dark grey tiled ensuite. One of the three doubles has access to front garden, there’s a family bathroom with grey tiles, white stone-topped timber vanity, a heater and deep bath. On the other side of the hallway is a powder room, also a laundry with excellent storage solutions.

“When it comes to a popular location and the perfect lifestyle, this hot property with a cool beach house vibe takes some beating,” enthuses Tom Offermann Real Estate agent Tim McSweeney who has slated it for auction on Saturday 28 January.

“It is a two-minute walk to the white sand of Sunrise Beach via the Chalet Café and Lookout making every surfer’s dream come true. Alternatively, it is five minutes via Orient Drive to the leash-free doggy beach.”