Behind the Build: Luxury Villa Packed with Surprises
July 17 2023
When you see Kenins Developments’ name on a project, you know to expect something special.
Led by Martin and Dina Kenins, the Gold Coast-based construction and development company has amassed an impressive portfolio of projects, many having claimed industry excellence awards.
‘The Lakehouse’, a glamourous LA-inspired mansion in Benowa Waters, smashed the suburb record when it sold prior to auction for $6,335,000 in April of last year.
Before the new owners could crack open the champagne, the Kenins were already a few months into their next project – a trio of luxury villas set within a leafy pocket of Southport.
‘Kaiia Residences’ was completed in June, with Villa 2 / 60 Falconer Street now listed for sale through Kollosche agent Jamie Harrison.
A SURPRISE PACKAGE
The Kenins had engaged Burleigh Heads-based Mi Design Studios to draft their vision for modern Scandinavian-style homes with touches of glamour and, true to form, the tri-level villas punch above the ordinary.
“We aim to provide features that you don’t get in most standard villas,” says Martin, a licensed builder who led the 15-month construction program, while Dina is responsible for the stylish selection of finishes and fixtures.
“We want people to feel excited about coming home.”
One such reason to get excited is a sizeable backyard featuring an entertaining deck and landscaped gardens, providing a private outdoor space for a young family, those with pets, or professionals who like to play host.
“The composite decking requires no maintenance and the landscaping is irrigated, making this space really easy to care for,” says Martin.
A contemporary facade features fresh white James Hardy fibre cement cladding offset by timber-look aluminium battens, with the pitched roofline a nod to Scandinavian design.
Set over three levels, a double garage finished in epoxy flake steps up to a living area and a fourth bedroom with an adjoining bathroom, creating a private ground level for guests, grandparents, or a teenager.
FINISHED TO PERFECTION
The consistent application of premium finishes in neutral tones achieves a cohesive aesthetic across all levels. Quality quartz stone, large format porcelain tiles, and thick loop pile carpet lay the foundation for more glamorous features to shine.
Panels of Tasmanian oak timber screening lend warmth, texture and shape, while the brushed metallic tones of brass tapware and accessories bring a level of sophistication to the mix.
Delicate and eye-catching, an asymmetrical pendant provides reason for visual pause above the kitchen island bench, where half-round timber panelling adds textural interest. Quality Smeg appliances, a butler’s pantry, and quartz stone benchtops complete the package.
“We’ve chosen finishes that offer an upgrade on what you might expect to find in a standard villa,” says Martin, “and incorporated as much glazing as possible to maximise natural light and cross ventilation. That also reduces the load on your lights and air-conditioning.”
Spaciousness was an intentional outcome of the design with a 2.7-metre high ceiling and extensive glazing achieving an openness that’s filled with natural light and fresh air.
Corner-opening doors slide back to extend the main living area onto a covered balcony where the outlook takes in an eyeful of leafy greens.
CENTRAL CONVENIENCE
The location of Kaiia Residences was also carefully considered, with Falconer Street enjoying easy access to a wide range of conveniences while being tucked away from main roads. The development also addresses the shortage of new housing in the area.
“We saw the potential in Southport as a high-growth area that’s got everything you could possibly need in close proximity while living on a quiet street,” says Martin.
The ever-popular Ferry Road Markets are minutes away, as is the newly-opened Queen Street Village which is anchored by an upmarket IGA, EMF gym, Dendy Cinemas, eateries and more.
For all of its practical features, Southport is also only 10 minutes from The Broadwater and the patrolled surf at Main Beach, while the nearby Smith Street Motorway opens up a smooth commute to Brisbane.
2/60 Falconer Street, Southport is now selling – contact Jamie Harrison on 0424 965 891.