Hampton Homes, Sunshine Coast

Builder/Developer Hampton Homes
Photographer Steve Ryan/Rix Ryan Photography
Products Quantum Architectural Series (hinged and bi-fold doors, sliding windows), Crestlite Commercial Series (double hung windows with Ovolo glazing, fixed windows, offset frames), Custom arched windows, Circle windows, Louvre windows, Ultriva Pearl White finish
Glass Clear laminate glass (6.38mm) and Spotswood toughened glass (6mm)
Services Manufacturing, installation, custom fabrication, project management

PROJECT BRIEF AND UNIQUE CHALLENGES

The construction of this luxury resort-style home on the Sunshine Coast presented a unique set of challenges and opportunities. The architect’s design intent demanded not only aesthetic precision but also careful consideration of environmental factors, such as high wind ratings and salt corrosion, necessitating the use of durable materials and finishes. The design also called for custom and oversized products, including tailored arched windows and a nearly four-metre-long bi-fold door, to achieve the desired resort-style elegance. Given the complexity and scale of the project, Trend recognised that a dedicated project manager was essential to oversee every detail and ensure alignment with the architect’s vision.

A DEDICATED APPROACH TO PROJECT MANAGEMENT

Trend selected Travis Rudken as the project manager for this landmark Sunshine Coast luxury home due to his extensive experience in high-end residential construction. Subhash Saini, Trend’s State Commercial Manager, says of Travis, “He’s worked in the architectural space for over 20 years, and has worked as an installer as well, so he knows what’s required for high-end homes.”

“Even though Travis had to travel over two and a half hours, and despite already having a supervisor based on the Sunshine Coast,” Subhash says Travis was handpicked “based on his background and how he could help the customer.” His selection underscores Trend’s commitment to matching the right personnel to each project, ensuring the highest standards of execution.

Travis’s dedication to the project was evident in his time spent on site, partnering with Hampton Homes and other trades to ensure seamless integration of Trend’s custom products into the construction process. This hands-on approach allowed him to address challenges proactively, maintain clear communication between all stakeholders, and ensure that every detail aligned with the architectural specifications. His efforts exemplify Trend’s commitment to delivering not just products but a comprehensive service tailored to each project’s unique needs.

DESIGN EXPERTISE

To meet the architect’s precise specifications for this luxury home, Trend developed a range of custom solutions that seamlessly combined functionality with the aesthetic demands of the project. Specially crafted arched windows, colonial bars, and oversized components were tailored to reflect the British West Indies/Caribbean plantation style. These elements not only enhanced the architectural vision but also maximised natural light, ventilation, and ocean views.

Every product was meticulously made-to-measure using CAD drawings and exact site measurements to ensure accuracy and aesthetic consistency. For instance, the arched windows were achieved by a detailed process that started with CAD drawings to ensure the radius was correct, followed by custom rolling of the metal, then powder coating, and finally assembly.

Travis also explains the attention that was given to aligning vertical and horizontal bars across windows and doors - a detail that required significant effort to maintain visual harmony throughout the property. “We worked with the site team, the architect, and the builder to make sure that where we could, we lined those bars up vertically and horizontally. This was so you don’t have a change as you look across different elevations. You don’t want too many transitions in heights between the windows.” This level of precision was critical in achieving the cohesive look demanded by the architect.

LOGISTICS

The logistics of delivering and installing Trend’s custom windows and doors for this home required careful planning and execution. While site access was manageable, the size and complexity of certain components, such as the nearly four-metre-long bi-fold door, presented unique challenges. Travis explains that they addressed this “by sending oversized items to site in what we refer to as KDC, which is in knock down format. So essentially the door frame goes in like a flat pack, all packaged and safely bundled up. Then the door panels go individually, already factory glazed. Then it’s all assembled and installed on site.” This approach ensured that even the most substantial elements could be seamlessly integrated into the build with ease.

Protective measures were also implemented during construction to prevent damage to the premium finishes. Black protective tape was applied to door sills to guard against scuff marks from tradespeople’s boots, and temporary ramps were constructed over high-traffic areas to shield sensitive components from wear and tear. These proactive steps reflected Trend’s commitment to maintaining the integrity of their products throughout the build process. By combining innovative delivery strategies with meticulous on-site care, Trend ensured that their contribution met the highest standards of quality and durability.

ENVIRONMENTAL CHALLENGES

Building a home in a coastal environment brings unique challenges, requiring careful consideration of materials and finishes to withstand harsh conditions. The proximity of this Sunshine Coast property to the high-tide mark necessitated solutions that could endure high levels of salt exposure, strong winds, and humidity while maintaining aesthetic appeal.

To address these challenges, the client chose Ultriva Pearl White powder coating for the product finish that offers an extended 15-year warranty for exceptional corrosion resistance. This durable finish was specifically chosen for its ability to withstand the beachfront conditions without compromising on visual appeal. Additionally, stainless steel hardware and fixings were employed to resist the corrosive effects of salt-laden air, ensuring long-term functionality and durability. To preserve the longevity of these high-performance materials, clients were advised on regular cleaning and maintenance practices, such as frequent washing to remove salt deposits.

Engineering advice was also sought to meet stringent wind load requirements for this oceanfront property. All windows and doors were specifically designed to comply with standards for water and wind resistance, with reinforced frames and specialised glazing to withstand coastal conditions. These structural considerations were critical to ensuring the home’s durability and safety in the face of severe weather events that may occur.

COLLABORATION AND COMMUNICATION

The success of this project was built on seamless collaboration between Trend Windows and Doors, Hampton Homes, and other trades. To ensure alignment with the architect's concept and adherence to the construction timeline, Trend coordinated with Hampton Homes' site management team throughout the build. This involved regular communication to coordinate the sequence of trades and ensure that openings were prepared and waterproofed before Trend's products were installed.

Trend did more than simply supply and install windows and doors. Travis maintained an active presence on-site throughout the build, ensuring that every detail was executed to the highest standard. The team maintained open lines of communication with builders and other trades to address challenges, such as aligning windows and doors with external cladding or internal finishes. Travis emphasises that everyone involved "wanted (the end result) as close to perfection as you could get it. And to achieve that, you can't rush. It had to be done very systematically and methodically." He further explains, "Communication was paramount. The key to the whole project was the synergy, the communication between us here at Trend, the team on site, and the builder to achieve what they wanted to achieve."

This dedication ensured that every element of the project came together harmoniously, reflecting the meticulous detail required for a home of this calibre. Travis says, "This wasn't just about fitting windows. It was about making sure everything was transparent – what we were supplying, how it would look, how it would work with other trades." By fostering strong relationships and prioritising clarity at every stage, Trend played a pivotal role in delivering a stunning result that exceeded client expectations.

OUTCOME

The completion of this luxury Sunshine Coast home stands as a stunning example of Trend Windows and Doors' expertise in delivering tailored solutions for upscale residential projects. The end result is a home that met the design objectives of stakeholders, and which the homeowner described as "almost perfection." With no post-construction issues reported since the project's completion, it has been a resounding success. The home has since won Master Builders Housing & Construction Awards for Individual Home over $10 million and Specialty Award for Best Residential Swimming Pool, solidifying its status as an iconic property on the Sunshine Coast. Beyond its stunning appearance, this project underscores Trend's ability to tackle complex challenges, collaborate effectively with stakeholders, and deliver exceptional results that exceed expectations.