Mansion Global

Former Deer Sanctuary Integrates Modern Luxury Into Natural Beauty

This Sunshine Coast home is listed for A$2.4 million

Save

While on vacation over Christmas in Australia seven years ago, Jaz Hoy and her family, who were living in Europe at the time, fell in love with "Samara," a house situated in the former Forest Glen Deer Sanctuary in Queensland, Australia.

"The property is unlike anything we had seen before and have seen since," said Ms. Hoy. She paid A$2.25 million (about US$1.7 million) and moved straight there upon her arrival in Australia in June 2009.

But it’s time for others to enjoy the home. "As there are just the two of us, Samara has become rather too large for our requirements," Ms. Hoy said. She is acting as the property’s agent, asking A$2.4 million (US$1.8 million).

The house enjoys all the natural beauty that comes with a rainforest location. Deer may no longer be seen here, but kookaburras, cockatoos, parrots, fruit doves, are just some of the array of wildlife that’s still living on the property.

Its location—in the Sunshine Coast, Queensland—is considered one of the most beautiful parts of the world to live, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F-86°F) year round.

More:Click here to find out how to buy an island in Australia

The main residence was constructed around two lakes and cantilevered amongst a native gum tree backdrop. Inside, the home, which features three living areas, two kitchens, five bedrooms and four bathrooms, is all about state-of-the-art technology and luxurious comfort.

Through the glass bifold doors, the main living area opens to a terrace, a 20-seater spa and a wet edge pool, all overlooking a billabong and a 40-meter (about 131 feet) sway bridge that came with the Deer Sanctuary.

The master suite upstairs sits suspended amongst the treetops where birdsong can be mingled with classical music from the invisible ceiling speakers. A large TV screen lowers from the ceiling so and there is no obstruction of the outside view brought by floor-to-ceiling windows. Down the hallway is a home theater with seven custom-made leather armchairs.

Over the years, Ms. Hoy has made many improvements to the property, including a huge timber deck extending out over the front dam, where a tall fountain was built in the middle. A full automation system throughout the entire house was installed. A gym and sauna was added as well a relaxation deck overlooking the rainforest. The additions and improvements cost an estimated A$200,000, according to Ms. Hoy.

Write to Fang Block at fang.block@dowjones.com