Gabriel Poole Masterpiece: Love the Water, Love the Sky

Embedded in peaceful and leafy surroundings only metres from the Twin Waters golf course, this extraordinary Gabriel Poole residence boasts one of the most exquisite waterfront locations. A lake within a lake rather than a sidearm of the lagoon, the water in front of you unfolds to a magnificently wide expanse. In the distance, it narrows to a strait, allowing for a picturesque pedestrian bridge, before spilling over into the main lake and the Maroochy River in the distance.

Whether you soften the views by folding the banks of white shutters, or whether you open the sliding doors to enjoy the panorama in all of its dramatic intensity, you always feel part of the scenery rather than just a spectator. Key to this joyful feeling of space and airiness, of being immersed in nature and protected at the same time, are banks of clerestory windows high above that allow you to gaze up into infinity. Your surroundings may change, but the sky is always there, was one of the architect’s design principles.

Gabriel Poole, a multi-award-winning master of his art who was recognised for his ground-breaking designs and developments far beyond the Sunshine Coast, had an extraordinary ability to create delightful and uplifting spaces “where the soul can play”. Exploring the dynamic of boundaries and of spatial connections, of different colours and different materials, of the way they connect and the way the light falls on them, he felt involved in “the romance of design” where homes are practical and functional but also full of character, charm and a distinctive style that allows for an emotional attachment. “I don’t know how it happens, but I know that you can walk into my houses and you can feel the volumes”, Poole used to say.

For 3 Tamarind Place, he created four interconnected pavilions that are beautifully arranged around a central patio and along a completely private pool by the Northern boundary. Boldly rising from the 801m2 allotment, each of the pavilions incorporates high banks of clerestory windows, further accentuated by fins that jut out from the external walls like the rudders of an ocean liner, adding a distinct nautical theme to the design.

The largest pavilion hugs the canal front and is home to an expansive open-plan living area with an elegant double-sided fireplace that separates formal dining and a relaxed lounge area.

A lot of thought went into the kitchen. One workstation with a combined gas and electric six-burner cooktop features a servery to the alfresco patio; an opposing island bench with plenty of walking space in between creates a stylish second workspace. A dining table made of stainless steel, beech and glass was specifically designed by Gabriel Poole to tie in with the brushed stainless steel benchtops, the island’s glass top and the warm hues of the timber floor.

In line with the main pavilion but separated by a short garden walkway with banks of louvres to both sides, the master suite offers the same glorious water views, the same vertical expanse and the same blue sky above the row of clerestory windows. Allowing access to the waterfront as well as to the internal patio, the master retreat includes a stylish ensuite and an adjoining separate dressing room. Main feature is a custom-made, Gabriel Poole-designed bathtub with a brushed stainless steel surround.

A bold street appearance with strong horizontal and vertical lines defines the main entrance and deepens the impression of a rock-solid, core-filled quality build that is there to stay and that will withstand all tests of time. A symmetrical array of floor-to-roof concrete columns hides the two pavilions toward the front of the residence, both offering wonderful accommodation for family and friends or simply an amazing amount of additional living space.

The second bedroom is conveniently located by the hallway, close to the main living area and right opposite the patio with its covered all-weather entertaining area.

A large and quiet family room, currently serving as an office, welcomes you with a serene and relaxing ambience thanks to a high void and a pleasant poolside position. An internal staircase provides exclusive access to bedrooms 3 and 4 on the upper level. Awash with light from the architect’s signature clerestory windows, they share a dual access bathroom and make for a completely secluded, private hideaway. As pre-plumbing for a kitchenette is in place in the family room downstairs, this pavilion could easily be transformed into a luxurious self-contained studio.

Ingeniously designed and meticulously crafted to suit one of the very best lakefront locations in the entire estate, 3 Tamarind Place is the only Gabriel Poole home ever built in Twin Waters. Reluctantly offered for sale by its original owners, it represents a once in a lifetime opportunity to own a timeless masterpiece that will be enjoyed and admired in generations to come.

Experience the extraordinary and call Lydia for your inspection.