Hotel style is often a reference point for new homes. In the case of Tania and Cameron McMurtrie, an affection for the timeless chic of east Asian resorts, the holiday vibe of South Africa’s safari lodges and the generous verandahs of classic Queenslanders converged to inform a beachside build in Perth.
The couple bought this sloping, 716m2 block in 2007 to create a home for themselves and their children – Conor, now 18, Eloise, 14, and Lexie, 11. It came with an aesthetically challenged 1970s house, where they lived while planning their new abode.
“We would take wine out to the garden and sit on a step, looking at the view,” says Tania. “I’d say to Cam, if we were to build up on this block, we’d get fantastic views. We should build an upside-down house.” Cam was convinced when he finally climbed onto the roof and was moved to yell, ‘It looks amazing!’ ”
Enter Dean Humphrey of Humphrey Homes architecture and building practice. A long-time friend of the couple, he instantly understood the dream and his team drew up a design to make full use of the block.
Fast forward to the new home, brought in on budget and ahead of schedule. To the street it presents classic colonnaded verandahs shaded by a magnificent jacaranda. From the top-level entry foyer, an art-filled hallway winds past a study and guestroom to the open kitchen, living and dining zones, sited to take advantage of ocean views and dreamy sunsets. Through the french doors and out on the verandah is an outdoor kitchen every bit as elegant and functional as the main cooking space inside. Both share access to a scullery with walk-in cool room, ice-maker and commercial dishwasher.
For Tania, a chef who runs A Better You cooking school from home, the kitchen design was critical. It has to work both as a family hub and for classes. “It’s been a success,” she says. “We can all cook at the same time, and we can entertain inside and on the balcony.”
Downstairs is the family ’s private zone. Higher ceilings and a continuation of the black-and-white theme in the upstairs living areas support the resort-style feel, while all bedrooms and the home cinema open to the outdoor terrace through french doors. Conor’s room has an ensuite, the girls share a double-entry bathroom and all three children’s rooms have their own walk-in wardrobe. The main bedroom suite is a lavish retreat running the width of the home on the western side. Shuttered doors connect it to the lower terrace and pool, completing the picture of resort-style luxury.
“There was a quote I loved and thought about when designing this home: ‘Instead of wondering when your next holiday will be, set up a life you don’t want to escape from’,” says Tania. “And we really wanted to create that life in this house.” Goal accomplished.