A waterfront mansion, crowned Australia’s best house, is set to go under the hammer, offering buyers the chance to own one of the most awarded homes in the country.

PALA, a striking architectural residence in Mermaid Waters, has been listed for sale ahead of a 16 May auction. Designed by renowned architect Joe Snell and built by boutique firm Havendeen Projects, the luxury home has claimed top honours at national, state and regional levels, including House of the Year titles in 2024.

The north-east point position property sits on the widest body of water in the suburb, with 46 metres of frontage and uninterrupted skyline views. The four-level home features a five-car basement, a golf simulator, multiple living zones and an expansive rooftop entertaining space. A custom-designed flood storage system has also created a seamless infinity lawn-to-water connection – an architectural feature that has become a signature of the home.

Owners Rob and Tui McKinnon, directors of Havendeen Projects, originally built PALA as their family home but say family and life’s demands have led them to list the property.

“We designed PALA to be a forever home, but life evolves, and opportunities present themselves,” said Rob McKinnon. “What we’ve created here is more than just a house – it’s a showcase of everything we stand for as builders.”

PALA was completed in mid-2023 after an 18-month build, incorporating three suspended post-tensioned concrete slabs and 21 precast concrete panels – the tallest standing 12.7 metres, the heaviest weighing 15.6 tonnes. The post-tensioned slabs allow for vast, column-free interiors, while the steel framework ensures long-term structural integrity.

Architect Joe Snell of Studio Snell, whose portfolio includes the Sydney home of Guy and Jules Sebastian, said the home stands apart from anything else on the market.

“PALA is a masterclass in architectural balance,” Snell said. “It was designed to welcome you in at the narrow street frontage and gradually open up to embrace the water. The way the structure grounds itself makes it feel expansive and effortless, yet there’s a precision to every element.”

Sales agent Jamie Harrison of Kollosche said the property’s rarity, design and position will make it a standout campaign.

“This is one of the most significant homes to be offered for sale on the Gold Coast,” Harrison said. “You simply won’t find another north-east point position with this level of construction, detail and lifestyle integration.”

PALA has received multiple accolades, including the National Residential Master Builder of the Year, National Contract Home, and Gold Coast House of the Year. It has also been recognised for its interior design, swimming pool and smart home integration.

Jamie Harrison expects strong national and international interest in the property, with the auction set for 16 May at 1pm on site at 24 Winch Court, Mermaid Waters.

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