Architectural Masterpiece in Denmark's Bushland Offers Luxury and Sustainability
Perched high on a north-facing ridge along Mount Hallowell in Ocean Beach, this stunning forest-bound residence represents a true collaboration of visionary design and expert craftsmanship. Designed by the renowned architect Hermann Fehr and built by master craftsman Bernie Malatzky, the home seamlessly integrates with its natural surroundings, drawing inspiration from the towering karri and sheoak trees and massive granite rocks that define the landscape.
Inspired Design and Natural Harmony
Current owner Louise Swan reflects on the home's creation, noting that the late Bernie Malatzky was an inspiration in himself, with his quiet manner, clean worksites, and insightful approach. "Our home has been built to an exceptionally high standard," she says, highlighting features like north-facing floor-to-ceiling, double-glazed windows and sliding doors that offer breathtaking views across the valley to Mount Shadforth.
Nestled on a pristine 7438sqm parcel of enchanting woodland, this passive-solar home is carefully oriented along a north-to-south axis to maximise sunlight and shield against southerly winds. Impressive timber doors welcome you inside, where blackbutt flooring guides you through two internal atriums to an expansive sunken open-plan living, dining, and kitchen zone.
Sophisticated Interiors and Outdoor Living
This space seamlessly extends to a spacious wraparound entertaining balcony with uninterrupted forest vistas, elevated by lofty ceilings, wide windows, carefully curated lighting, and a Cheminees Philippe double-sided fireplace. The refined kitchen is a masterpiece, boasting a custom window framing one of the internal atriums, along with an integrated wine rack, stylish display cabinets, and sleek appliances including a steam oven, pyrolytic electric oven, induction cooktop, and dishwasher.
Accommodation is thoughtfully planned, with the master chamber featuring a wall-mounted television, an enormous walk-in wardrobe, a private wraparound balcony, and an ensuite with an enclosed water closet, double vanities, a bath, heated floors, and tiling. Three additional bedrooms—one with a built-in wardrobe and another with a walk-in wardrobe—are serviced by a family bathroom, separate powder room, and a laundry with substantial bench space and a door to a drying court.
Remarkable Features and Practical Inclusions
Beyond the main residence lies one of the property's most remarkable features: a 107sqm six-car garage and workshop equipped with a vehicle hoist, dual automatic doors, and a security system. This space offers future potential for conversion into a secondary living area or guest quarters, subject to approvals. Additional parking options include a U-shaped hot-mix asphalt driveway, a concave carport, and a separate natural hardstand for caravans and boats.
The property boasts numerous cost-saving and practical features, such as a solar system, an independent 23,000L rainwater tank with an emergency bushfire hose, and a serviced termite barrier. Mrs Swan notes that the home suits both retired couples and families, with ample accommodation and space in the oversized garage for hobbies or vehicles.
Community and Location Benefits
While enjoying its secluded setting, the home is within a 10-minute drive to Denmark, a community praised for its bushfire awareness. "We have numerous bushfire street coordinators in Ocean Beach who keep the neighbourhood updated," Mrs Swan explains, adding that during Christmas, the town's fire engine visits, with firefighters setting off the siren and throwing lollies to children.
This architectural gem offers a luxurious treetop living experience, combining inspired design with sustainability in a serene bushland setting. For more details, contact agent Wellington & Reeves.
