Architectural New Build
Dell Way, Buckland Beach
When we were approached by Studio 7 and the Breach family to review their heavily stylized house plans, we were blown away by the design’s complexity. Always up for a challenge, we were keen to use this as an opportunity to showcase our skills. Read the full story below
We worked closely with both the architect and client during the design process to help shape the building into the home they envisioned.
Starting with earthworks, we transformed the forgotten bank at the back of the Breach family home. We began by clearing vegetation and removing huge amounts of earth. We constructed timber and block retaining walls to secure the neighbouring property, as well as a massive timber retaining wall to maximise the property’s usability.
At this stage, we installed a large drain for the shared driveway servicing both homes. Once the earthworks were complete, we were ready to construct the foundations. Much of the lower story of this home consists of a poured-in-situ concrete shell, finished with both plaster and gib.
This thick barrier between the two floors future-proofed the building to be used as two separate dwellings if needed. The combination of concrete and timber framing resulted in two distinct spaces separated by solid sound barriers, making both areas feel and sound private.
The second story features a striking sunroom. By using large aluminium bi-fold doors, we created a fully enclosed alfresco space. This allowed for the comfort and warmth of modern living within a secluded native bush setting. The building is topped with a unique 45-degree Colorsteel roof and features three light wells that add natural light to the upstairs floor.
To achieve the minimalist design, nearly every wall in this house is a brace wall. We used multiple steel portals and posts to create a structure that is both striking and incredibly strong.
The building was then clad in various materials. Careful diligence was paid to workmanship during the cedar installation to avoid the use of soakers.
This attention to detail allowed us to leave our mitre cuts and joins exposed for a seamless finish. Finally, we added a large timber balustrade that extends the full length of the property. We constructed stairs that connect the newly raised front lawn to the original creek level, a deck that wrapped around the exterior of the home, and rebuilt the old driveway to be wider and more accessible.
We had a lot of fun doing this build, and we would love more opportunities like this to showcase our workmanship.
Read client feedback
I am pleased to provide this reference for Linear Homes, who built our new architecturally designed home behind our family property of 30 years in Howick.
Before starting the new house, we engaged Jonathan and his team to construct a downstairs bathroom in our 1962 home. The workmanship was outstanding, and the relationship we formed with the team made it an easy decision to appoint Linear Homes for the full build at 10A Dell Way.
Over the nearly two-year project—extended in part by COVID-19—Jonathan and his team worked closely with us and our architect to ensure the design was fully realised, offering practical and cost-effective solutions whenever needed. They consistently sought our input, valued our opinions, and addressed any concerns promptly.
Their attention to detail and quality of workmanship were evident throughout, from structural work to the finishing touches.
Once the home was completed, we genuinely missed having the team around, so it was a pleasure to have them return in 2024 to complete the driveway and development in front of our original home.
We are extremely happy with both the 10 and 10A Dell Way projects and highly recommend Linear Homes—Jonathan and his team—to anyone seeking a reliable, skilled, and professional builder.
Leslie
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