Tumbulgum Transformation – Country Homestead Renovation

Owner’s Dream – Tumbulgum Transformation

The owners of this beautiful country property wanted to transform their aged property into a relaxed country homestead in this Tumbulgum transformation. The interior needed to be renovated in a manner that was both modern in functionality and traditional in style. It needed to be a tranquil home where the owners could develop their boutique distillery, care for rescued horses, and host guests for extended stays. 

Site Condition

The existing property lacked a sense of presence in its expansive country surroundings. The home was positioned on a large rural lot located just below the NSW/South-East Queensland border. It had a scant connection to its extraordinary location – the ridge of Terranora over paddocks to the north, the blue hills of northern NSW, the winding Tweed River and cane fields to the south.

The entry to the home was along a hidden side path, past the bathroom windows and through a poorly positioned sliding door. The kitchen and main living areas were cold and outdated, lacking airflow and natural light throughout the interior.  Only the well-sized floor area and adequate bedroom structure precluded demolition for a new build. 

Architectural Designer Solution

Tumbulgum Transformation

PlaceMate Architects transformed this property to benefit from and to the stunning green surroundings. We added three elements common to traditional homestead structure: a ‘stables wing’ to include a garage, office and loft; a ‘side verandah’ as the main entrance; and a ‘great room’ complete with a beautiful raked ceiling. 

At one end of the home, the great room extends into a north terrace down to the paddocks. At the other, a river terrace with a truncated gable frames a sunset silhouette of Mt Warning. Sandstone walls now mark the main entrance and the interior is detailed with neutral colours and natural textures to compliment the home’s heritage features.

The kitchen and main living areas underwent a total makeover to now bring in the beautiful scenery of the green hills outside. A fully self-contained flat was added to allow for independent living/long-term guests. The flat includes a master suite with a picturesque outlook in both directions. 

What resulted from PlaceMate’s redesign was a calm, balanced interior that immediately increased the home’s scale and presence in the landscape. The project came in on time and budget, and the owners are thrilled with the results of their forever home.

Project Partners

Builder

Peter Walker, Walker Building Contractors

www.walkerbuildingcontractors.com