Country Haven

ENVELOPED IN RUSTIC STONE AND SHINGLES, THIS SPRAWLING BRISBANE BEAUTY WOULD BE RIGHT AT HOME IN NORTH AMERICA – OR ON THE SILVER SCREEN

- Kylie Jackes

Ever since the roof went up on Genevieve and Nick’s home, it has created an impression. “During the construction, delivery people would ask if we were building a church,” recalls Genevieve. “There’s nothing else around here quite like it.” Three years on, and the US-style home still commands attention, with passers-by pulling up to take a look, or even venturing down the driveway to ask about the design.

For Genevieve, who grew up on acreage just a few streets away, the leafy area just 20 minutes from Brisbane’s CBD drew her back four years ago when the opportunity came up to buy a one-hectare block. Although there was already a house on the site, the couple had ambitious plans to build a distinctive family home where they could raise their sons, Hunter, Boston and Archer. “I think I must have been inspired by all the American movies I watched growing up,” reflects Genevieve. “I really wanted a warm homely home with a pitched roof, dormer windows and cosy attic rooms.”