Couple easily customise home to suit their dream site
When retired turfer Peter Lowrey and his wife Noela found the ideal rural block for their new home, Paal were able to help them customise the house plan to take best advantage of the site.
Originally from Geelong, the couple found their dream setting near Barham, a country town on the Murray River in the Western Riverina region of New South Wales.
“The creek running out the back of the property drew us to the place,” Peter said.
With a farming background and 20 year career helping to build and manage golf courses, he considers himself a ‘handy’ guy. “This was the main reason for me wanting to tackle a kit home.”
The couple sought a medium sized house for their retirement and the four-bedroom Robertson design from Paal Kit Homes caught their eye.
Wanting to capitalise on their view towards the creek, Peter and Noela modified the standard design by adding a 3.6 metre wide verandah to the rear of the house. They also altered the ensuite bathroom.
“All the changes were easily made by Paal on the computer when we spoke to them in Sydney,” said Peter.
He built the house single-handed with the exception of the roof, electricals, plumbing and the floor coverings. “I’ve estimated we saved between $60–$80,000.”
Retirement allowed Peter to give all his time to the build. Working six days a week, he completed the house within 12 months – exactly the timeframe he expected – with a satisfying result.
“The experience has exceeded my expectations and I know people think our house is special, as we watch them slow down to take a look as they drive past!”