PARKVIEW HOUSE x KDS

Parkview House is more than just a home; it’s the culmination of a collaborative effort to create a thoughtful, considered, and beautiful living space. From a dated 1950s Art Deco property to a warm, welcoming retreat, this project reflects our dedication to intentional design and community collaboration.

Our goal was clear: design a house that felt as though it had always belonged while embracing modern sustainability and functionality.

What made Parkview House unique was our approach to collaboration. From the beginning, we worked closely with a dream team of professionals—builder, architect, interior designer, and landscape designer—ensuring every decision aligned with our vision and budget.

Our journey began in 2018 with the purchase of our “the ugly duckling,” a property neglected yet brimming with potential. Initially planning a renovation, we quickly discovered the original brickwork was covering a weatherboard structure that had been poorly altered, structurally it wasn’t viable to keep. It became clear that building new was the best path forward.

Key to the success of Parkview House was assembling our team early. We began with builder Matthew Menichelli of Elevate Building Group, whose guidance helped set realistic budget expectations even before the purchase. From there, we partnered with Archiscale for architecture, collaborated with Shaynna Blaze for interior design, and Darin Bradbury of Mint Design for our landscape design. This collaborative approach ensured every detail balanced creativity with practicality.

Energy efficiency, budget-conscious decisions, quality, and low maintenance were central to our planning. We prioritised local businesses where we could and selected materials that offered durability and sustainability. Notable features include James Hardie Linear Cement Sheeting for weatherboard cladding, a Delos 3-stage Whole Home Water Filtration System, Tesla Wall Car Charger, and double-glazing throughout. Skylights in key areas maximised natural light, particularly in our south-facing rear.

In just eight months, amidst the challenges of COVID-19 lockdowns, Elevate Building Group brought Parkview House to life. The result: a stunning, single-level four-bedroom home with a dedicated study, abundant storage, and exceptional quality finishes. The understated facade blends seamlessly with the neighbourhood, while the interior surprises with warmth and thoughtful design. The house truly embodies “koselig,” a Norwegian word for cosiness and contentment—something we feel every time we step inside.

Parkview House isn’t flashy or ostentatious, but it’s everything we hoped for and more. Its quiet elegance, thoughtful design, and subtle nods to the original structure—like the house number “116” near the door—create a sense of belonging. This project taught us the power of collaboration, intentionality, and trust in creating a home that reflects our values.

Stepping through the door, Parkview House feels like a home, a perfect blend of functionality, beauty, and soul. It’s more than a house—it’s our dream brought to life.

Photographer Cheyne Toomey from Spacecraft