The property originally had one title to cover the existing, two-unit block. To develop the land, the title was subdivided into four:
two for the existing duplex and two for the new build. Due to bank lending conditions, the new titles had to be obtained before construction could commence. This meant all water connections and driveways had to be completed in order to subdivide the land, in order to get the new titles, in order for building to begin. A new parking pad was also placed at the beginning of the driveway, to create visitor parking spaces for everyone to share.
The build itself presented a few challenges but Maddren had solutions for them all. The site was steep, so the land was cut and retaining walls built around the lower level. The site was a decent size, but soil at the bottom was very soft and wet, so a massive amount was removed and replaced with compact hardfill, much better for building on.
Despite the challenges, including lockdown limitations, Maddren and their clients marched steadily on with the project and Sonia and Jessica are now the proud owners of their first, brand new two-level homes, which largely mirror each other but with key variations to reflect their own style.
For exterior, dark coloursteel with cedar and white brick give a smart and contemporary look, with jutting balconies and their glass balustrades adding interest and further decks providing additional outdoor space at the rear.
Inside, raking ceilings and wooden floors give a spacious feel to the open plan living zones where the lounge and dining spaces have been swapped about, and one kitchen wears the fresh tones of white and grey while the other is strikingly dark beside a forest green fireplace. In private wings to the side the master suites sit by an extra powder room for guests and downstairs another two bedrooms and a bathroom add functional flexibility. With wardrobe doors, baths and laundry cabinets also altered in the expression of personal taste, this duplex provides the perfect balance of ‘same, same but different’ for two very dear daughters and hoists them onto the property ladder in style.
