Smarts and style. You’ll find them in equal measure in this striking family home in the country. Smarts because when you build a house of this standard, you want to make the most of its environment. Maximising 360-degree rural and river views was key for the owners, so the floor level of the 286sqm home was raised up. Ease of entertaining was also a priority. Large doors offer exceptional flow from the open-plan living and kitchen to decking and barbecue areas, and this is where the style comes in. Adding drama is the black kitchen, which stars a 4m-long island with Dekton benchtop and waterfall end, breakfast bar and integrated cabinets that conceal the entrance to a scullery. Adjacent is the wine cellar tucked behind large corner sliders.

The same cedar cladding as the exterior is used in feature walls, creating cohesion, adding texture and warmth, emphasising the organic rural vibe and providing more intrigue. The entry-hallway feature wall, for instance, has a secret doorway Cedar cladding in feature walls creates cohesion, adds texture, emphasises the organic rural vibe and provides intrigue. that leads to the media room and double garage. Three bedrooms include the main suite with walk-in robe and ensuite. Both the latter and family bathroom are opulent in moody hues. Basins, toilets and the standalone bath are black. Dark features do not dim the interior, however. Far from it. Light floods in through swathes of glazing. Everything here has been thoroughly planned, including the bed for the family dog, cleverly built into a window seat.