Last Listing description (March 2016)
Embracing the surrounding rolling countryside, this Hunter Valley hide-away offers its residents a relaxing, leisurely way of living and an opportunity to reconnect with the land.
The elevated 5 acre hillside property is oriented to take advantage of an ideal aspect with incredible panoramic views. Large windows throughout celebrate the country setting. To maximise impact, a subdued colour palette of creamy whites and neutrals complements the picturesque landscape scenes.
The residence is modern yet traditional with wide raised verandahs around the entire footprint protecting the interior through the summer months. Alternately, during winter, the low sun streams in, bathing the internal spaces in warmth and light. Supplementing the passive efficiency of the home, a substantial 9.75kW roof top solar system of 39 P.V panels is connected to the grid, reducing energy costs significantly.
Designed and built by the previous owner/master-builder, robust construction and crafted finishes will endure the test of time. Comprising four distinct zones, the home offers multiple living and entertaining areas to accommodate various occasions and seasons.
The entry foyer effortlessly connects to the formal lounge room via a wide square set opening. During the evening, banks of windows frame the vibrant sunset enriching the space. Vivid colours sink behind the sculptural Great Dividing Range on the distant horizon. The dramatic scenery is accompanied by a combustion fire on an internal brick wall. As well as introducing a raw texture, it is practical for storing and radiating heat while creating an inviting, cosy ambiance.
Extending toward the East, beyond the lounge, are the casual living, meals and kitchen areas. Following the contour of the hillside, gentle steps define each space. The expansive open plan is exaggerated by soaring vaulted ceilings. Like the unfolding countryside outside, the feeling of limitless space is successfully translated internally. Vast green outlooks across the rural surroundings retain the peaceful mood. Gentle natural light and cross breezes circulate.
Inhabiting this space is refreshing and stimulating.
The huge kitchen provides plenty of preparation and storage space. Top of the range stainless steel appliances are arranged around the white stone benchtops. Beautifully finished, the kitchen functions superbly and displays thorough aesthetic awareness. Every surface has been considered from the kicks under the customised cabinetry right up to the directional LED spotlights.
Secluded away from the shared living areas, the private bedroom wing is divided by an extra wide central hall. At the far end, the king size master suite enjoys sweeping scenic vistas. Access to the verandah extends the space outdoors. A couple of chairs here offer an ideal sanctuary to unwind before the uninterrupted sunset. A recently refurbished ensuite is contemporary in both style and performance. Luxurious fittings such as stone topped vanity with designer chrome mixers and sensor lighting adjacent to the rain soaking frameless shower ensure an ultimately pleasurable experience.
Three additional bedrooms surround the main bathroom. A fifth bedroom or study makes the most of the quiet space. Abundant storage cupboards are unobtrusively built into the structure transforming dead space into something useful.
A private alfresco area overlooking the pool offers yet another place to entertain or simply relax. Lush and leafy, with an East facing aspect and protected design, it can be enjoyed any time of the year. Like a deluxe oasis, the solar heated pool is surrounded by tall palms and a separate hot-tub provides a choice depending on the climate.
Flanked by Flowering Ash trees, the long driveway makes a grand statement. Entry to the property is via a highly visible remote control electric gate, securing admission at all times. A huge variety of plants burst from the irrigated formal garden beds and an orchard yields a selection of healthy fruit and nuts. A 3 bay Colorbond shed has enough space for necessary maintenance equipment whilst additional storage space under the house is easily accessible and presenting future possibilities as a wine cellar, man cave and more.
A self-contained Granny Flat is positioned away from the main home, surrounded by established shrubs to ensure privacy. Comprising a double bedroom with built-ins, a bathroom, laundry, kitchenette and comfortable air-conditioned living area, guests are indulged with the remarkable long views across the valley and the sunset spectacle. This additional feature offers a plethora of potential. As a home for relatives, a teenager's retreat, guest accommodation, or even an air bnb income generator, the opportunities are many depending on your motivation.
Brandy Hill is regarded as an exclusive and prosperous suburb within the Port Stephens LGA. Accessible directly to Maitland, Morpeth or Raymond Terrace, a selection of shops, schools and recreational facilities is located conveniently nearby. It is approximately 25 minutes to the start of the M1 motorway in Thornton linking to Sydney in around 2 hours and less than an hour to the wider valley via the Hunter Expressway to renowned Hunter vineyards, world class dining, golf courses and more. Again, about half an hour in the opposite direction toward the coast, Newcastle hosts a string of beaches, art galleries and festivals or one can experience the natural paradise of Port Stephens for diving and bush walking.
On a 5 acre lot in semi-rural Hunter Valley hinterland, this custom designed home celebrates the natural Australian landscape. A myriad of colourful birds are attracted to sweet smelling flowering plants whilst established habitat trees along the boundaries are home to all sorts of native wildlife. The enclosed front paddock is large enough for various outdoor activities encouraging an active, out-door lifestyle. Those who desire to keep horses, goats or alpacas won t be disappointed.
Striking a balance between peaceful country living and availability of services and amenity, this five-star tree-change affords an exceptional standard of living brimming with beauty and opportunity.
This property is proudly marketed by Hunter River Realty Group, for further information call 4934 4111.