Omaha designer home just steps from the water

Personal knowledge of Omaha’s coastal climate was a major contributor to the success of architect Lindy Leuschke’s design for this brilliant beachfront house just a few steps from the water.

The focus was to find a way to live alongside the forces of nature yet in harmony with the beauty of the magnificent coastal environment.

The house at 10 Lagoon Way, Omaha captures expansive sea views and all-day sun from almost every room, with extensive glazing, louvred decks, cross ventilation and natural airflow to enable a close connection with the views, the sea and the sand.

Built for the coastal environment from vertical timber, with an iron roof, aluminium joinery and louvred outdoor living areas, the 251sqm house was constructed in the 1990s to provide a relaxing, easy-care, welcoming environment for family and friends.

The key consideration driving the design was to facilitate engagement with family and guests and encourage appreciation of the ocean environment.

Built over two levels with the living area and master suite upstairs, the house has four bedrooms, two bathrooms and a double garage with internal access.

The ground floor entrance area is double volume glass on both sides and sets the scene with a view right through to the beach. There are three bedrooms, one of which features four bunks, a bathroom, a powder room and a laundry on this level.

Stairs from the entrance foyer to the second floor meet a suspended walkway linking the open plan living space to the master bedroom.

The open plan living, dining and kitchen area is embraced by decks on either side. The deck on the eastern side of the house faces the beach and captures the morning sunshine – perfect for an al fresco breakfast before a day at the beach. Around to the west the deck facing the lagoon captures softer afternoon and evening light.

This can be quickly transformed from an open deck to a weatherproof al fresco space by waterproof, adjustable louvres forming the walls and a motorised LouvreTec roof.

The kitchen is beautifully designed for serious entertaining with double ovens and a French door fridge flanked by twin pantry cupboards. Timber-faced cupboards and wooden floors add warmth.

“The floors are all proper tongue and groove in solid kwila and this runs right through the living area,” says Precision agent Di Balich, who is marketing the property.

Adjoining the kitchen is a dining space with room for a 10-seater dining table, and a lounge with a welcoming open fire. The deck at this end of the space has an open pergola which frames the view.

Ample living areas and bedrooms and great outdoor entertaining areas make this a standout holiday or permanent home.

Tenders close on April 27.