Some homes go beyond structure, becoming a true expression of design, craftsmanship, and carefully considered materials that elevate daily living. Designed by Space Design Architecture and built by Buildingwise, this project is a masterclass in thoughtful execution, featuring Artisan Exterior products; Sokeria Crazy Paving, Bribie Organic Wall Cladding, and Bluestone Organic Stepping Stones. What makes it even more special is that the owner of Buildingwise is also the homeowner, ensuring an intimate connection between vision and creation. To bring these premium materials to life, the expert stonework of Creative Escape Landscape and Construction was instrumental.
A Contemporary & Welcoming Design
Perched high above Newcastle, this home seamlessly blends contemporary design with warmth and character. Crisp white render and rich timber elements create a modern yet inviting backdrop, while sculptural cacti and a striking dragon tree add bold architectural presence to the landscape. At the heart of it all, Bribie Organic Wall Cladding provides a grounding element, with its creamy, earthy tones reinforcing the organic, coastal aesthetic.
An Entrance Defined by Craftsmanship
From the outset, the homeowners envisioned natural stone as a defining feature, and Bribie Organic Wall Cladding delivered beyond expectations. This Australian-sourced sandstone, with its warm, textured finish, creates an immediate sense of welcome. Cladding both the entrance and interior, it fosters a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. Outside, a double-sided feature wall enhances the front yard, adding depth and texture to the landscape. The entrance feature wall also incorporates a white slat gate that subtly obscures but doesn’t cut off the backyard, ensuring a sense of openness while providing privacy. On the reverse side, this same wall serves as a stunning backdrop to the pool area.
"From the design stage, we knew we wanted stone to be the focal point of our entry and a statement feature within the home. Bribie Organic Wall Cladding exceeded our expectations. Its warmth pairs perfectly with the home’s soft whites and timber, creating a cohesive and inviting aesthetic. The stone is beautifully complemented by the Sokeria Limestone Crazy Paving in the driveway, which ties everything together."
Meticulous Stonework & Thoughtful Details
Every detail in this home has been thoughtfully considered and executed with precision. The Sokeria Limestone Crazy Paving, with its sandblasted surface and tumbled edges, exemplifies the level of craftsmanship that is both visually stunning and highly durable. Each irregularly shaped paver has been carefully fitted together, creating a fluid and organic aesthetic that softens the geometric lines of the architecture.
The immaculate stonework of the Sokeria Limestone Crazy Paving, with its sandblasted surface and tumbled edges, has been installed with flawless precision. Each organic piece has been meticulously cut and aligned at every angle and surface, ensuring seamless integration. The natural, tumbled edges have been thoughtfully preserved, adding organic charm that contrasts beautifully with the clean architectural lines and enhances the connection to the surrounding garden beds.
The rain chain, a sculptural alternative to a traditional downpipe that enhances both function and beauty, is a small yet thoughtful detail reinforcing the home’s commitment to craftsmanship. Acting as a functional water feature, it guides rainwater in a delicate, cascading flow, adding movement and artistry to the space, and seamlessly feeds into a skimmer lid integrated with the Sokeria Limestone Crazy Paving. These finer details underscore the expertise woven into every aspect of the build.
A Driveway That Complements the Home
The journey into the home begins with the Sokeria Limestone Crazy Paved driveway, where warm hues of bone, cream, and milk-coffee echo the natural textures of the Bribie Organic Wall Cladding. Beyond its beauty, Sokeria Limestone Crazy Paving is renowned for its density and durability, making it an ideal choice for high-traffic areas such as pathways and entertainment spaces.
Here, the seamless integration of materials reinforces the home’s overarching design philosophy—where every selection is intentional, and every detail contributes to the greater aesthetic.
A Seamless Selection Process
Choosing materials for a build can be overwhelming, but for these homeowners, expert guidance and hands-on support made it effortless.
"With the help of our architect and the Artisan Account Manager, selecting the stone was an easy and enjoyable experience. The colours and organic texture aligned perfectly with our vision. Once we narrowed down our options on Artisan Exterior's website, we received hand-delivered samples, which saved us time and made the decision-making process seamless."
This personalised approach ensured every material fit harmoniously within the home’s aesthetic, resulting in a truly cohesive outcome.
The Dual Perspective: Builder & Homeowner
Balancing the roles of both builder and homeowner provided a unique advantage—bringing both construction expertise and a deeply personal connection to the project.
"As a construction company owner, we understand what makes a project run smoothly: good planning, good staff, skilled contractors, and high-quality materials from trusted suppliers. By securing these from the outset, we made informed decisions at every stage, guided by experts in each phase of the build."
This meticulous approach ensured efficiency and precision, delivering a home that is not only beautiful but built to stand the test of time.
A Home with a View
Beyond its impeccable materials and thoughtful craftsmanship, this home is perfectly positioned to embrace its breathtaking outlook over Newcastle. Expansive openings and seamless indoor-outdoor transitions allow natural light to flood the interiors while framing the panoramic views. The textured warmth of the stone and timber elements echoes the beauty of the surrounding landscape, creating a sense of connection between the built environment and nature.
On the lower garden level, Bluestone Organic Stepping Stones encircle a welcoming outdoor firepit, where the sweeping views of Newcastle create a spectacular backdrop for gatherings.
A Space That Feels Like Home
At its core, every build is about creating a space that feels warm, inviting, and uniquely personal. In this home, that goal has been beautifully realised.
"Turning this from a ‘project’ into our ‘home’ and sharing it with family and friends has been the most rewarding part. There isn’t a single thing we would change about the finished result."
This home is a testament to expert craftsmanship, thoughtful material selection, and a design philosophy that values both aesthetics and longevity. From the striking entrance to the meticulous stonework, curated landscaping, and spectacular Newcastle views, this collaboration between Smart Design Architecture and Buildingwise has resulted in a home that is as stunning as it is timeless.
A Home Defined by Craftsmanship & Contemporary Warmth
Designed to embrace its breathtaking outlook over Newcastle, this home perfectly balances contemporary design with a welcoming warmth. The Bribie Organic Wall Cladding enhances the soft whites and natural timber of the façade, while sculptural cacti and a striking dragon tree add a bold yet harmonious contrast. Every material has been chosen with care, from the hand-laid Sokeria Limestone Crazy Paving, meticulously installed to ensure seamless transitions, to the thoughtfully placed rain chain—an understated detail that speaks to the home’s refined craftsmanship.
This project is a testament to the power of exceptional design, expert execution, and the beauty of natural stone. Explore our range of premium stone finishes at our studios in QLD, ACT, and NSW, or contact us for samples to bring your own vision to life.
