A home that grows with you. Life changes, but the right home can change with you.
At Stockland Providence, in the heart of the Ripley Valley in South-East Queensland, we understand that what you need from your lifestyle today may be different tomorrow. That’s why we offer residents a choice of house and land packages that suit young families to mature singles or couples, and new parents through to those whose children are grown. An extra bedroom can be a nursery or even a space for elderly guests. A generously-sized outdoor area can be brought to life with children and pets or transformed into a nurturing relaxation space with a beautiful ornamental garden. Of course, some things at Providence don’t change, such as the unique location surrounded by mountain ranges and an abundance of local, leafy parks; or the importance we place on connecting and enriching our community. If you’re looking for a home where neighbours are always on hand for a chat, kids walk to school with their friends, and new faces are welcomed with a smile and a handshake, you’ll love being part of our neighbourhood.
If you’re after the perfect home, here are five ways for it to grow with you.
Bedroom to nursery
At Providence, our master builders offer three and four-bedroom homes that offer luxurious layouts and finishing touches at an affordable price.
If you’re starting your family, that spare bedroom near the master suite can easily become a beautiful nursery before transitioning back into a well-appointed bedroom. You’ll need a comfortable nursing chair, a crib and a nappy changing table, while baby clothes can be stored in the built-in wardrobes that are a standard feature in most of the architecturally-designed, family-friendly Providence homes. Basics sorted, opt for a colour scheme and décor that is soft and soothing to create a calm nursery space and be sure to have dimmer switches installed on lights. While once we stuck to blue for boys and pink for girls, today gender neutral paint colours are on-trend – think whites and creams – and low VOC paint reduces fumes for baby.
Stencils featuring flowers, teddy bears, or favourite children’s characters are easily available, while stick-on murals are easily removed when you want to change up the room later. Built-in shelves, or a dresser, can be used to display decorative items such as toys, picture frames and special ornaments, including family heirlooms.
Image - Metricon Homes
Study to activities room
Now more of us are working from home, we want a study or office that is next-level to the make-do space we may have been used to. Many Providence home designs offer a study space, but you can also turn an extra bedroom into a luxe office. What will make it work: customised joinery for shelving and cupboards to store paperwork and books; an ergonomic desk chair; plush flooring – a luxurious, durable carpet can work well here, or you may like timber floors with a wool rug; plus some personal elements– a striking painting, a vintage storage chest, or a bar cart (for the grown-ups). Once you or your family have outgrown the need for a study or workspace, turning this space into a craft or activities room is easy. Depending on your interests, it’s simple to add an easel (and a drop sheet), scrapbooking or journaling materials, a smart tv – those YouTube tutorial videos are great for learning new skills, or an armchair for reading or simply taking some time out.
Image - Bold Living
Playroom to teenager’s retreat
At Providence, parents can choose a master bedroom located well away from children’s rooms and even a private space integrated with the master suite. Your teenager will also need private space to study, sleep, chill out and hang out with friends, so once your children are older, why not convert the playroom? Out with the mini tables and chairs and toy cupboards and in with some teen-friendly furnishings and décor – remember to get their input, so they feel the space is truly theirs. Wash and wear paint and a tough floor covering are essentials, while built-in wardrobes adapt to every storage situation. You want to add a bookcase for your teen to display cool gadgets or collectables, as well as get easy access to textbooks. Large corkboards can hold posters of boy bands, or sports heroes, while, if you have room, a sofa, as well as a bed, can provide hang-out space for friends. Your teen will also need a computer desk, with internet access a given, while noise and light blocking curtains are a good idea.
Outdoor area for families and pets to relaxation space
Having family and friends around you is always important and Providence is a place for people to feel welcome. Creating indoor-outdoor flow is easy with designer kitchens that connect seamlessly to generously sized outdoor entertaining areas for your summer soirees. Our house and land packages also offer lawns large enough for a trampoline or swing set and children and pets to play. When there’s more time for you, that outdoor area can house the ultimate relaxation space. Splash out on outdoor furniture that is perfect for a lazy day or an afternoon nap; hang solar lights, pot up greenery in large planters for a striking botanical display, and add an outdoor rug and a coffee table. If you have an overhead trellis, a climber like jasmine or grapevine can help you feel cocooned in nature and comfort.
Image - Brighton Homes
Double garage to man’s cave or a she space
Transforming a half empty garage into a getaway is all about your interests and aesthetics – there are no rules. He may love a workshop complete with hand and power tools or somewhere to indulge his love of sports – cue a small beer fridge and wall-mounted television. She might like a place to sculpt, do ceramics, or even to use as a potting shed. Green thumbs may also consider joining the Ripley Valley Garden Enthusiasts. One rider – you might have to toss a coin to see who gets this great space.