126 Ashton Street

Margaret River WA 6285

This is an exceptional opportunity to walk into a sustainable life - with style. A commanding sweeping view from a privileged high spot overlooking the Margaret River valley and National Park almost lets you forget that you are on the western edge of town. Eagles soar and most nights are enhanced by the light background-sound of the river rapids, frog concerts or the coastal surf. The morning choir of birds is pure joy and storms blowing in from the west are real theatre.Built in 2012 by architect/artist couple Michael and Britta Sorensen as a model for contemporary sustainable architecture (AIA Award 2013), the house is a striking and timeless expression of modernism, comfort and locality. Its integrity and absolute commitment to treading more lightly on earth results in an impressive catalogue of sustainability features, materials and finishes. In spite of the relatively small footprint of the house, the unconventionally sculptural design with flowing open spaces and long view axes make for a light, generous, yet cosy feel in all rooms. Several decaying Marri trees on the block had to be felled and, once milled, local master craftsmen turned them into beautiful inbuilt features that lend the house warmth and story. Double glazing, sun trapping and hydronic floor heating ensure that Margaret River winters feel cold no more.The Sorensens go to work each day up the external stairs to the carefully planned upper level that can be modified to suit different needs. The large roof deck with fireplace is a fabulous spot to entertain or to simply take a break and experience the peace offered in this special part of the world. Britta is also a horticulturalist and designed the now mature permaculture garden that enables self-sufficiency in supply of fruit, vegetables and eggs. She is also a keen cook, and large quantities of food move from the garden via the mudroom to the impressive kitchen and down to the European style cellar. Guests get put up in true Margaret River style in a large and lovingly renovated 1970s caravan - complete with shag pile rugs, sea grass flooring and orange walls. It is parked under roof next to the shed with its own little sitting deck and bathroom - people just love it; it is a cubby for adults.The shed is well insulated, functional and spacious and also features a separate artist's studio with large glass doors overlooking the garden.The garden (featured on ABC Gardening Australia 2015) is a combination of beauty, interest, wildlife habitat and extensive food production based on permaculture principles. It has been organically managed for 10 years and boasts a large orchard / vegetable garden and exceptionally alive healthy soils. Environmentally conscious management of all water means that a glass of purified rainwater drunk in the kitchen flows on to water the apple trees. Highly productive, the garden is surprisingly low maintenance due to its design and maturity. It is also home to a large variety of small birds, lizards and a pair of resident frogmouth owls.Michael and Britta have taken great pride and care in establishing this small piece of paradise. They are now moving on to a new adventure in the Witchcliffe Ecovillage and are looking for just the right person/s to step in and continue the story of 126 Ashton Street. Please get in contact to receive a Detailed Information Package. Inspection by appointment only.