From resort-style family living to sophisticated entertaining, everything is catered for in this functional and high-end contemporary property created by Medallion Homes.

Words Ben Kelly

There is a fine art to making a lasting first impression. An overly grandiose display runs the risk of creating a statement that mightn’t date well; but erring on the side of subtlety could prove underwhelming.

Luckily, Medallion Homes has refined the art of making great first impressions, as is evident in a new Glenunga home that strikes a perfect balance between subtle elegance and sophistication.

The facade contains many elements to unpack with its premium water-struck clinker bricks – imported from Germany – creating a striking contrast against the rendered white pillars. Then, western red cedar elements set a precedent for the use of feature timber throughout the home.

Medallion Homes managing director Jordan Katelanis says the brief was to create a harmonious family environment which can be separated to give family members their own privacy – and it all starts with the facade.

“The rendered pillars are designed to create interest and appeal in the home – including the use of the shadow line above – as well as assist with privacy to the master bedroom wing. The wide overhung roofline cleverly finishes the design,” says Jordan.

“The introduction of western red cedar to the front door and the panel-lift garage door sets precedents for the continuous use of feature timber throughout the home, as well as the black aluminium windows which also match the black accents throughout the interior.”

Upon entering through the three-metre timber front door, it’s clear that the beauty of this home goes much deeper than its exterior. The sophisticated first impression is elevated with feature pendant lights and a raised ceiling that draws you into the entrance hallway, kitchen and living space.

The open-plan kitchen and family living space is the hub of the home where Medallion’s trademark ceiling work is continued.

“The raised ceilings and light pelmets are classic Medallion features which have proven to be most popular as they create a grand feel to the home,” says Jordan.

A unique split-level island bench is the focal point of the kitchen, combining both engineered stone and timber benchtops. A generous butler’s pantry, or larder, is situated in the centre where it also accesses a discrete water closet and powder room.

Jordan says many clients are opting for this modern style of kitchen where the larder can be shut away while entertaining, keeping the main kitchen space presentable.

“The floor-to-ceiling cavity sliding doors to the larder create a smooth transition between both areas and when the doors are open, the spaces are practically one,” he says.

The kitchen island’s design allows flexibility for both casual family meals and for entertaining. “This versatile feature allows the space to be used for dining as well as food preparation if required. An island which can be used flexibly is a clever use of space,” Jordan says.

A total of four bedrooms are spread across three separate wings. These separate residing zones ensure the spaces will suit a young family both today and for many years to come.

The master wing of the home is comprised of two separate master suites, each with their own luxurious floor-to-ceiling walk-in robes that meet up with a shared ensuite.

A resort-inspired master bathroom adjoins a small courtyard with a floor-to-ceiling window bringing the outdoors in. Louvred windows create a tropical resort-style feel and provide ventilation.

“This is a feature our clientele has been interested in for a long time as it encourages resort-style living and a feel of luxury in the comfort of their own home. It also creates a beautiful backdrop, no matter the weather,” says Jordan.

To create a consistent luxurious feel, large Italian porcelain tiles feature through most of the home and are extended to the al fresco space to help blend the indoor/outdoor space.

“The outdoor living is an extension of the main home in most modern designs these days – it can be used for increasing the entertaining aspect of the home. We have encouraged this by using wide floor-to-ceiling windows and sliding stacker doors to seamlessly integrate the two areas,” says Jordan.

“The client also chose to use the feature brick from their facade across all elevations of the home, which adds an extra element of consistency and luxury.“

The outdoor kitchen is certainly no afterthought to the rest of the home and is equipped with a sink, Beef Eater barbecue and bench space for entertaining. This outdoor living space adjoins a low-maintenance garden that includes artificial grass, a half-sized basketball court and composite deck area.

While tennis courts are still the more traditional option for backyard sports, basketball half-courts are becoming popular.

“Basketball courts are becoming more popular amongst our clientele. They are a versatile and creative use of space, and introduce an interesting alternative to the classic garden,” says Jordan.

While the property certainly does make a stunning first impression, it’s clear that careful planning has gone into every step – from the facade through to the backyard – ensuring that the beauty of this home runs more than skin-deep.