Family matched their Paal home to its stunning setting
When Martin and Nicole Davies decided to build on their block on the banks of the Hawkesbury River in New South Wales, they wanted to be able to adapt the home to the beautiful surroundings.

“The 25-acre property goes right down to the river and was a secret we didn’t want to tell anyone about,” Martin said.
Paal offered a name they could trust as well as a design that suited the site. “A number of organisations do kit homes, but Paal has been around for a long time and we liked the style and layout of their homes.”
The couple chose the roomy Stanthorpe and were able to walk through the Paal display home. “This was appealing because we could look at everything, make the changes we wanted, as well as tick the boxes for the things we liked,” he said.
The size and floorplan of the Stanthorpe were right not just for the riverside setting, but also for family life with three sons, aged 17, 20 and 22. “We’re able to close the hallway door on their own wing, which has their bedrooms and a rumpus room.”
The couple reversed the standard plan, extended the garage, enlarged the master ensuite, and changed the location of the linen press.
They also oriented the home to make the most of the breathtaking landscape. “Standing at the kitchen bench, you’re taking in the entire property and the river. The splashback has got a mirror, so even if you’ve got your back to the river, you can see it in the reflection.”
A toolmaker by trade, Martin has always been good with his hands and decided to do the build himself. The only challenge was working Monday to Friday and living 40km from the property.

“I spent weekends at the portable house we had here. After arriving home from work on a Friday I’d pack a bag, get up early, come down and spend all day Saturday and Sunday on site. My dad was my right-hand man who helped me throughout the entire build.”
The project was a success, helped by Paal’s customer support, which Martin found to be exceptional. “They were always available, and if issues arose, they immediately responded and provided a solution.”
When people ask Martin if he would recommend Paal, he says: “Absolutely. I’d rate them 10 out of 10, and I’m a hard marker.”