The Northcote House

A cozy breakfast nook at the front of the house gets a glimmer of soft morning light.

Cozy and warm, the main bedroom generously opens up to a private balcony on the north side.

A compact dining room acts as a focal point of the home, with easy access to the living room and pool.

Happy hour has never looked so good. The home's wet bar receives stylish treatment with an asymmetrical facade and mirrored background.

"The importance of this outdoor connection was a very high priority for the clients," O'Brien explains. "They wanted the boys to be free, but wanted to keep an eye on them without them feeling like they’re being monitored."

For the Northcote house, versatility is key. A retractable divider can easily turn one room into two.

A galley-style kitchen is tucked away at the side of the house, but accessible from the main living areas.

Vaulted ceilings and a built-in sofa turn the living room into a soothing sanctuary.

The outdoor patio and corridor give guests an impressive tour of the property grounds.

The suburban home sticks to a neutral, soothing color palette, but experiments with prints and textures.

Australian firm Nest Architects drew inspiration from Palm Springs minimalism, California-style bungalows, and Australia's Queenslander homes.

A sunny, California aesthetic shines brightly in the outdoor patio.