A love of the environment, a rural-like setting, and a beautiful big River Red Gum was all it took for Nathan and his family to move to Newenham.
After renovating a house in Blackwood and a short stint with family in Bridgewater, Nathan and Anthea and their boys were ready for a new start, when they discovered Newenham’s growing community and like-minded neighbourhood.
Long walks, bike rides, watching the birds in the water retention ponds, and the chance to muck around in a nearby creek with their boys Kirk, Tobias and Everett, are big attractions to life at Newenham for Nathan and Andrea. The other is the big River Red Gum in their new backyard.
“We found out about Newenham through a friend. Knowing both our interests in landscape and planning, and that we were looking to buy somewhere in the Hills, he suggested Newenham as a good option,” says Nathan.
Landscape Architect Nathan grew up in Tasmania. Andrea is a South Australian country girl, and both have a love of the land. Perhaps that’s why the appeal of the Adelaide Hills was such a drawcard.
“Anthea and I have been married for almost 10 years,” Nathan says. “I really enjoy working in the garden and, having grown up in Tasmania and Anthea in country SA, a connection to the land has always been important to us.”
In fact, Nathan has taken his love of the land, the garden, and the environment and turned it into a career.
“I am passionate about the environment and good design, so interests naturally steered me towards pursuing a career in Landscape Architecture. My profession offers a privileged opportunity to create meaningful places for people,” says Nathan.
The couple fell in love with the natural character of Newenham and felt instantly at ease once they understood the vision and masterplan for the project.
“We looked at a few others just for a comparison. We were always interested in other rural locations but couldn’t find the right house or piece of land that fit our needs or budget,” says Nathan. “The block we have built on was an easy choice, with a beautiful big River Red Gum at the rear of the property and reserves in close proximity.”
It seems that Big River Red Gum is going to feature predominately in the couple’s plans for the garden.
“The tree has become the central feature in the back of the yard — every morning I love staring at it through the back window while enjoying my coffee. I can’t wait to start working on landscaping both the front and back garden,” enthuses Nathan.
The natural aspects, wide-open spaces, linear trails, and proximity to Mount Barker are just some things the Marshalls love. However, the community aspect is one of the primary attractions.
“We love meeting new people, and this new neighbourhood has attracted some like-minded people who also enjoy the community aspect of living here. We’ve already taken the kids skateboarding down the linear trail to Keith Stephenson Park. They love the open spaces and reserves,” says Nathan. “The proximity to Mount Barker means it’s convenient to catch up for a coffee or grab a few groceries.”
Although they may be renovation experts, this is Nathan and Andrea’s first new home build. The build has just finished, they have moved in, and are now working on interior decoration.
“Anthea and I developed a concept sketch we really liked; a playful, contemporary vibe with a few unique features, and making the most of the northern orientation to the rear of the yard,” says Nathan.
The family opted to go with bespoke builder, Mirage Homes.
“We really enjoyed the collaborative process, and Mirage Homes did an outstanding job at developing the design to bring it to life within our budget,” Nathan says. “We were particularly impressed by the attention to detail and the emphasis on achieving a high-quality building which would perform well in a temperate climate like the Adelaide Hills.”
The Marshall’s new home features a kitchen and living area which faces north and lets sunshine into the house even through the winter months. It’s just one of a number of energy-efficient measures that have been built into their new home.
“Everything has been designed with energy efficiency in mind. For example, the windows are double glazed uPVC, the house has been pressure tested to reduce air leaks, we have solar panels and a battery, and a large rainwater tank. We’re also really looking forward to having a deck in the backyard to entertain during warmer months,” says Nathan.
Nathan and Anthea are settling into life at Newenham with their boys and have just welcomed the newest member of their family, baby Everett. They are loving life, enjoying their new home at Newenham and exploring the Adelaide Hills.
“I can’t wait to take the boys on a bike ride around Laratinga Wetlands and up to the summit.” Nathan says.
But life’s not just about bike rides with the couple discovering the charms and of course the yummy goodies of the nearby eateries.
“Sidewood Estate was amazing; the food was incredible. For a coffee, I reckon Sazon Espresso on Gawler Street is my pick…friendly staff and great coffee!” says Nathan. “For lunch, Lobethal Bakery located at the top of Gawler Street is a hit with our family.”
While Nathan likes creating meaningful places for his clients, we reckon he’s doing exactly the same with his family. A brand new bespoke home and plans for amazing landscape architecture in the front and back yards…plans that have been designed to incorporate that beautiful big River Red Gum.
If you’d like to know more about joining our growing community or securing your future at Newenham, simply contact our Sales Team on 0429 107 497 or on sales@newenham.com.au.
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We look forward to welcoming you to Newenham soon.
