With the release of the first ten lots at Golden Valley around the corner, we’re excited to introduce you to three exceptional local designers who could help bring your dream home to life. 

At Fountaindale Group, we’re committed to supporting local talent and the Jamberoo economy. Each of these design professionals brings a unique perspective shaped by their experience living and working in our beautiful village.

Bruce Roberton: Embracing Jamberoo’s subtle charms

Architect Bruce Roberton of Great North Architecture has called Jamberoo home for seven years, and his designs reflect a deep understanding of the area’s unique characteristics.

“Living and working here for seven years, it’s the subtle aspects of the microclimate that I find most interesting,” Bruce shares. “The breezes and rainfall differ significantly from the coast less than 10km away. The sun sets sooner behind the steep escarpment. Sounds in the valley echo further than across plains. Understanding such contexts provides opportunities for site-specific design responses.”

Bruce’s approach to designing for Golden Valley will focus on site-specific responses within a modular framework. He envisions homes that might be smaller than the maximum size permissible but still able to meet clients desire for efficiency and joy making an architectural outcome more affordable.

“My vision is to offer site and client specific design responses within a modular framework such that engineering complexity and construction variables are minimised,” Bruce explains. “Cost control can be improved by front ending design resolution thereby reducing documentation and construction timeframes”

When asked about essential architectural elements for Jamberoo homes, Bruce emphasises the importance of orientation:

“On narrow sites, orientation is critical to achieve an acceptable level of solar access. Creative roof forms can allow light into otherwise dark spaces. On these wider sites, there is no reason living spaces should be denied generous winter sun regardless of orientation. The contours of Golden Valley will provide all dwellings with aspect with the right design response.”

Bruce also highlights the importance of sustainability in modern homes:

“The technology is here for a cleverly designed house on a large lot in this location to be completely off-grid. The task of the industry is to demonstrate that the upfront cost makes economic sense with design-specific modelling.”

Above are some of Bruce’s earlier designs

Nadine Ryan: Harmonising modern design with village character

Nadine Ryan, a Building Designer at Nadine K Drafting & Design has been a Jamberoo resident for over two decades. Her designs reflect a deep appreciation for the town’s unique blend of natural beauty and community spirit.

“Living in Jamberoo for 22 years has deeply shaped my design philosophy,” Nadine explains. “The town’s unique blend of natural beauty and community spirit inspires me to create spaces that harmonise with the environment and enhance the sense of belonging. I’ve learned to appreciate the local landscape and climate, which drives my commitment to designs that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing, respecting the charm of our village.”

Nadine’s approach to blending modern design with Jamberoo’s village character involves respecting the historical context while embracing contemporary trends. “I aim to create homes that incorporate modern materials and techniques but are still sympathetic to the village’s character. This means using local materials, maintaining traditional rooflines, and incorporating outdoor spaces that reflect the community’s connection to nature.”

She recommends incorporating elements that enhance comfort and efficiency in Jamberoo’s climate: “I recommend overhangs for sun shading, large windows for natural light, and insulated walls to maintain temperature. Outdoor spaces are crucial too, allowing residents to enjoy the beautiful surroundings throughout the year.”

Sustainability is a key focus in Nadine’s designs. “Sustainability is at the forefront of my design process. I prioritise energy-efficient materials and systems, like solar panels, double glazing and rainwater tanks. My designs focus on maximising natural light and ventilation, reducing reliance on artificial heating and cooling. I also advocate for using sustainable materials that minimise the environmental footprint.”

Looking to the future, Nadine sees residential design in Jamberoo evolving: “I believe residential design in areas like Jamberoo will increasingly focus on sustainability and community integration. We’ll see more eco-friendly homes that not only cater to individual needs but also enhance the local character and foster community interaction. Innovations in technology will also play a role, allowing for smarter, more efficient living spaces.”

Above are some of Nadine’s earlier designs

Annabelle McQuillan: creating joyful, connected spaces

Annabelle McQuillan, a Building Designer from Bespoke Belle Building Design, brings a passion for creating spaces that evoke joy and comfort while connecting with their surroundings.

“Jamberoo village exudes a relaxed rural charm, an abundance of green space and views of rolling hills in every direction, all within a vibrant, connected community,” Annabelle shares. “These qualities deeply influence my design philosophy. At Bespoke Belle, we focus on creating custom, client-centred spaces that are liveable, timeless, and beautiful. Spaces that evoke joy and comfort, connect with its surrounds and reflect a commitment to the environment.”

Annabelle emphasises the importance of sustainability in her designs, particularly in light of recent changes to energy efficiency requirements: “Homes are becoming increasingly energy efficient, especially with the recent rise in the 7-star rating requirements for all new homes in NSW under the BASIX scheme. At Bespoke Belle, we meet these standards as a minimum and offer options for clients who want to enhance their efficiency even further. We are passionate about working with the environment, incorporating solar passive design principles in every project. This includes maximising northern solar orientation with strategic glazing to harness passive warmth and natural breezes.”

She adds, “We also prioritise purposeful and functional spaces, as unnecessary square meterage can be costly to build and maintain. We advocate for solar panels and fully electric homes as future-proofing strategies, while also considering the site holistically by reserving space for vegetable gardens, composting, and supporting local native fauna and flora.”

When it comes to preserving Jamberoo’s unique character, Annabelle points to specific architectural elements: “Jamberoo’s village character is unique and highly valued, prompting the Kiama Council to establish a Jamberoo Development Control Plan to guide new developments in preserving this character. This plan highlights several features that set Jamberoo apart, including wide side setbacks, front verandas, large private open spaces, weatherboard cladding, and pitched roofs.” Click here to read more about the Jamberoo design inspiration, and to view Kiama’s Development Control Plan.

Annabelle also notes a shift in residential design trends: “I’m noticing a shift towards homes that offer greater flexibility in their use. Nowadays, a home isn’t just for a single, couple or family; it serves as a space for multigenerational living, home office, art studio, workshop, or secondary dwellings for both long- and short-term rentals. I believe we need to embrace more diversity in housing options, particularly in Jamberoo.”

Above are some of Annabelle’s design work

Advice for Golden Valley buyers

All three designers offer valuable advice for those considering building in Golden Valley:

Bruce encourages buyers to consider the unique opportunities of this location: “If you are at any stage of life, I’d encourage you to consider the unique opportunities of this location and this particular subdivision over a generic design approach. The methodology I am developing is probably better suited to owner-occupiers as it will embrace the individual lifestyle ambition. The Environmentally Sustainable Design (ESD) responses also best suit owner occupiers in terms of the life cycle economic case.”

Nadine advises starting with a clear vision: “Start with a clear vision of your lifestyle and needs. Consider how you want to use your space now and in the future. Research materials and designs that resonate with the area, and don’t hesitate to engage a professional early on. Collaboration can turn your ideas into a reality that reflects your unique style while enhancing the community.”

Annabelle suggests focusing on what brings you joy: “Think about what brings you joy and comfort in your home, as well as in other homes you’ve visited. Start jotting down any ideas that come to mind, like a cosy window seat or a spacious entertaining deck. Pay attention to spaces that make you feel good and note their features—perhaps they have high ceilings or warm northern sunlight streaming through the windows. Consider subscribing to The Design Files (thedesignfiles.net) and create a Pinterest board for inspiration, too.”

Remember that these local experts are here to help you create a home that not only meets your needs but also contributes to the unique character of our beloved Jamberoo. Their deep understanding of our local climate, landscape, and community spirit can help ensure your new home is a perfect fit for both you and our village.

Are you a local designer, architect, or service provider who would like to be featured in another Golden Valley local talent blog? Write to us at lani@thestoryshed.com.au and we’ll be in touch. 

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