Luxury Home Named House of the Year Sells for a Record $11.5 Million

Record-Breaking Sale in Noosa Hinterland: The Rise of ‘Whipbird’

In a remarkable turn of events, the Noosa hinterland has made headlines with the recent sale of a stunning hilltop mansion, ‘Whipbird’, which fetched an impressive $11.5 million. This sale not only shattered the previous record for the region but also came just days after a neighboring property, ‘Stonelea’, sold for $11 million. The surge in property values signals a growing interest from affluent homebuyers in this once-sleepy hamlet.

A New Benchmark for Luxury Living

Located at 81 Panorama Drive in Doonan, ‘Whipbird’ is a masterpiece that spans 1,100 square meters and features five bedrooms and six bathrooms. The property’s design and construction earned it the prestigious House of the Year Award at the 2024 Master Builders Queensland Housing and Construction Awards. This accolade is a testament to the exceptional craftsmanship and innovative design that characterize the mansion.

The sale of ‘Whipbird’ eclipses the previous Noosa hinterland record set in September 2023, when a property at 146 Solar Road in Cooroy Mountain sold for $10 million. The recent transactions highlight a burgeoning trend in the luxury real estate market in the area, attracting wealthy buyers seeking serene yet opulent living spaces.

Architectural Excellence

‘Whipbird’ is the brainchild of Jayden and Jenny Zernich of Zerni Projects, in collaboration with award-winning architect Jen Negline from Minnow Studio. The couple, who relocated from Melbourne prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, invested 13 months in constructing this architectural gem after purchasing the site for $2.96 million in January 2022.

The mansion’s T-shaped pavilion design is strategically oriented to maximize breathtaking panoramic views of the coastal and hinterland landscapes. The use of high-quality materials, such as Ocean Blue Travertine sourced from a single quarry in Italy, adds a touch of luxury and sophistication throughout the home.

Luxurious Features and Amenities

The ground floor of ‘Whipbird’ is striking yet understated, featuring black shiplap cladding, handmade grey bricks, and granite accents. The interior design harmonizes dark walls with the lush greenery of the surrounding forest, complemented by lighter accents that reflect the sky.

One of the standout features of the mansion is its state-of-the-art kitchen, equipped with Swiss-made appliances from VZUG, including a CookTop Wok, teppanyaki grill, and multiple wine fridges. The kitchen island, crafted from the same exquisite Ocean Blue Travertine, serves as a focal point for both functionality and aesthetics.

The property also boasts a mineral swimming pool and a bathing court, providing an idyllic space for relaxation and leisure. The six bathrooms are lined with a staggering 88 tonnes of rustic granite, with hand-carved baths and vanities that exemplify the attention to detail and luxury that permeates the home.

The Growing Appeal of Noosa Hinterland

The recent sales in the Noosa hinterland, particularly the rapid transactions of ‘Whipbird’ and ‘Stonelea’, indicate a shift in the real estate landscape of the region. ‘Stonelea’, located at 430 Cooroy Mountain Road, had been on the market since 2020, originally listed for over $15 million before finally selling for $11 million through David Conolly of Century 21 Conolly Hay Group.

Both properties offer expansive views of the Noosa Hinterlands, stretching towards the Pacific Ocean, making them highly desirable for those seeking a blend of luxury and natural beauty. The influx of wealthy homebuyers is transforming Doonan and its surroundings into a haven for exquisite homes, further enhancing the region’s appeal.

Conclusion

The sale of ‘Whipbird’ marks a significant milestone in the Noosa hinterland’s real estate market, setting a new standard for luxury living. As affluent buyers continue to flock to the area, the landscape of this picturesque region is evolving, promising exciting developments in the luxury property sector. With its breathtaking views, architectural brilliance, and luxurious amenities, ‘Whipbird’ is not just a home; it is a symbol of the burgeoning allure of the Noosa hinterland.