The loft in this North Coogee home is a revelation. Usually "loft" suggests an add-on, an extra space made by using the attic. Not here. Here we are talking about integration. The loft was designed to be a purpose-built space, in this case a home office for the owner. Its spiral staircase had to be lowered into place before the roof of the house was built. It is essentially the creation of a third storey, but with building regulations in high-density residential area, there was an issue of overviews if balconies were planned. So, no balcony but what a way to do business; the views across to C.Y.O'Connor Beach are worth the effort. Taking your work to the beach has a nice ring about it.

Bellagio Homes' Reg Boston pointed out that his team worked on plans prepared by Kensington Design. "The owners, Max and Giselle, had designs which we quoted on and then built," he said. "We do design and construct on our own but we take on people's drawings as well." "We liased with Sally Pearse, of Kensington Design, and they were very good. Their drawings were very well drawn." A couple of elements stand out in this home. The variety of ceiling designs is one and a brilliantly planned kitchen is another. The ceilings start with a coffer example in the media room to the left of the entry point, next is a raked version in the sitting room which apexes in a pyramid shape and finally another raked A-frame type in the loft.

Externally, cedar is the material of choice. The kitchen is defined by its absence. This absence is of appliances, refrigerators and the like. At the southern end of the Caeserstone island bench is a walk-through to a space which houses the refrigerator recess, a set of benchtop roller door-covered appliance hideaways and a pantry. The cabinetry, including the pantry, is in high-gloss white two pack. The concept is similar to a wet kitchen. At the nothern side of the house a 9m L-shaped pool links to an outdoor living area with built-in cabinetry and a barbecue setting. The entry are leads to the karri stairs and the first floor bedrooms. The stand-out here is the ensuite off the main bedroom. Travertine tiles to full height complement the stone of the vanity bench and the linked walk in robe is vast. "Bellagio were good," Max said. "We found them by the many houses they were building in the North Coogee area. Their signs were hard to miss. We are very pleased we chose them."