Imagine stepping back into life in simpler times, where instead of a view of your neighbour’s window, you look out onto rolling hills.
There are a few chickens, of course. Maybe a beehive, to pollinate the homegrown tomatoes.
Your grandson comes toddling down the lane past the little orchard that separates your house from theirs. He likes to collect the eggs for breakfast.
Now imagine you could have all this without giving up modern design and comforts.
Modern homestead designs are the perfect marriage between quiet, multi-generational living and elevated modern luxury.
What defines a modern homestead design?
Increasingly, Australians are looking back at the way life used to be, a time when there was less noise and more connection. We long to return to the things that slow down our days and fill them with life.
Modern homestead design is a fusion of contemporary architecture and functional rural design.
Warm, welcoming country aesthetics inspire life at a different pace.
Each design is unique, taking into account what you value most, but you can expect to include some of the following features:
- Wrap-around verandahs
- Gabled roofs
- A large open-plan kitchen
- Bay windows
- Skylights
- High ceilings
- Indoor-outdoor living spaces
- Mudrooms and oversized laundries
Designing for the Sunshine Coast Hinterland climate and lifestyle
Working with a Sunshine Coast homestead design and build expert from the beginning of your planning process will help you consider all the relevant choices.
While there is a plethora of exciting inspirations online from all around the world, designing specifically for Queensland conditions will ensure maximum comfort and functionality.
Design possibilities to consider:
- Making the most of natural light
- Reducing heating and cooling costs by choosing a north-facing orientation
- Using windows and doors for airflow and cross ventilation
- Double-glazing
- Solar power
- Rainwater tanks
- Maximising views
- Outdoor entertaining spaces for your ideal lifestyle
Sustainability is integrated naturally by working with your site, not against it.
Built for modern families and multigenerational living
Gone are the days of children moving out as fast as their legs can carry them. With cost-of-living skyrocketing, housing and care costs have moved out of the reach of many families.
But for those with a block of land, stark economic realities can foster a return to the romance of life on the land, close to the ones you love – minus the hassle of milking Bessy with a bucket and stool.
To design for multigenerational living, there are many design options to offer a little space and privacy. Consider:
- Separate wings
- Dual living zones
- Detached studios or cottages
- Self-contained spaces
- Guest retreats
Beyond the main residence: Creating a true homestead lifestyle
Depending on your interests and available time, your design could include:
- Sheds
- A chicken or quail coop
- Vegetable and herb gardens
- An orchard or food forest
- Cheese making facilities
- Canning and preserving spaces
- A root cellar
- A fire pit and outdoor seating
The aim is to reconnect with a simpler, more rewarding way of living, with space for family members to explore things they love.
Why experience matters when designing a modern homestead
Designing your dream Australian homestead is exciting but also comes with a myriad of choices and challenges.
To get it right, you want someone by your side who knows the drill.
With more than 25 years’ experience as a Sunshine Coast home builder, Morcraft can walk you through the process step by step, taking the stress out of planning your new lifestyle.
Call us today to start making your vision a reality.