Paal design adapted to rainforest setting

One reason that retired Queensland couple, Allan and Kay Tappenden chose to build with Paal was because the company allowed them to modify the standard design to suit their rural site.

They’d earlier purchased five acres of beautiful rainforest in Kin Kin – and the time had come to put it to use. Wanting to build from scratch, Allan and Kay did their research and turned to Paal.

The couple had definite requirements about the structural aspects of their house. “I was looking for a kit home with a steel frame, functionality, and on a single level,” says Allan. “And we kept coming back to Paal.”

He and Kay chose the Darling, with its country feel, pitched roof and charming bay window.

Planning to build overlooking their picturesque dam, the couple needed to make modifications, which Phillip Longhurst and Mauree Grace of Paal’s Queensland office were happy to accommodate.

These included moving the front door to the opposite side, extending the verandah and altering the kitchen.

“We wanted the kitchen and family room to be one area, looking towards the dam and rainforest trees,” says Allan. “I liked the kitchen in the Paal Franklin so we borrowed from that design.”

The Tappendens had never owner-built before and Phillip introduced them to an experienced builder of Paal homes, who worked with the couple until lock-up stage.

“That was excellent. We had a guiding hand that got us off to a great start and gave us a lot of confidence.”

During the build, the Tappendens were impressed with Paal’s constant back-up and assurance. The company’s recommendation to clad in Hebel power panel was also appreciated.

“We’ve really fallen in love with this product,” says Allan. “It has great insulation qualities and together with the wall linings supplied by Paal keeps the temperature very uniform, day and night.”

Kay and Allan had a clear vision for the interior, opting for whites and neutrals with polished concrete-style tiles underfoot. Their eclectic furnishings range from classic antiques to contemporary pieces, so the décor provides the perfect backdrop.

The couple are delighted with their new home, which is every bit as functional and beautiful as they’d hoped. “We’re very happy, and it’s a pleasure to be in.”.