Achieving the perfect balance

Greg and Lisa purchased 350 acres in Belbora, NSW with the aim of creating a country retreat to escape city life. There was no existing dwelling, apart from a small shed with no power, running water or toilet, so the couple planned to build a property that would complement the surrounding landscape.”

“We only wanted one level and Lisa wanted a verandah right around like an old farmhouse,” says Greg. “So, we thought it might be easier to look at a kit home.’

Paal’s name came up straight away, and after a conversation with Michael Christie, the couple realised they could have the flexibility they wanted. “We’ve built a few homes before, so had a specific idea of what we were after,” says Greg. “Paal was very accommodating.”

Once Greg and Lisa saw the inclusions and display homes at Paal’s Emu Plains showroom, their minds were made up. “We never really looked anywhere else,” says Greg.

The couple worked with Michael to modify the Berrima design, adding a bunkroom, as well as carport and alfresco out the back. Plus, they altered the layout to make the most of the magnificent scenery. “Every room along from the carport has a view,” says Greg. “We elongated the design to encompass that.

Greg and Lisa engaged Ray Collier to carry out the work, a builder recommended by Michael who’d built Paal homes before. “I wasn’t allowed to build because it would take too long,” says Greg. “I could have done it, but I’m still working in Sydney, and it would have taken me forever.”

The build took a year, and the couple was thrilled with result, especially as they could adapt the plan to suit their vision and include so many of their own ideas such as burnished concrete floors throughout. “We’re very happy, it’s worked out really well,” says Greg.

The couple was also happy with Paal’s process and would recommend them in an instant. “I already have,” says Greg. “Dealing with Paal was a pleasure, Michael was so helpful, agreeable, and enthusiastic about what we were doing.