VILLAGE VIBE IS REALLY CATCHING ON

As a consequence of the global shattering coronavirus epidemic more people are looking to get back to a village lifestyle feel while still enjoying a closeness to the amenities of the outside world

HOMEBUYERS around the nation have been demanding properties that offer a village lifestyle – a desire brought on by the global pandemic but one that is likely to stick around according SJB Architects urban designer Adam Haddow.

“Modernism said we couldn’t have working, living, sleeping and recreation together but the coronavirus pandemic is encouraging that,” he said.

“We’re living more locally. It’s not all about the floor to ceiling windows anymore.”

Mr Haddow’s comments were welcomed by two leading Cairns real estate agents who say the “garden city” offers multiple pockets of residential villages.

RE/MAX Cairns broker-owner Ray Murphy said suburbs like Edge Hill and Whitfield offered properties for all demographics, that could enjoy the village lifestyle.

“With Edge Hill you get a real safe and community atmosphere and you have all your amenities from medical to schools and the cafe precinct in the centre,” Mr Murphy said.

“During COVID lockdowns, locals discovered how fortunate they were to have everything at their fingertips and not have to go into the city or the major shopping centres.”

Ray White Cairns South principal Therese Plath said the city’s southern suburbs were a great choice for families who would not be deprived of any CBD conveniences.

From major retail hub Mt Sheridan Plaza to Piccone’s Village Edmonton and the whole town of Gordonvale – the southside presents clusters of small, community villages surrounded by parks.

“Gordonvale is a great example because the whole town has the village feel,” Ms Plath said.

“It has such a lovely atmosphere without the hustle and bustle of the city. There is the park right in the middle of town, a stand out feature and with the markets, it just brings everyone together – a real community.”

Here are five Cairns properties that offer their owners an in-demand village lifestyle:

This four-bedroom house will be auctioned on Tuesday September 22 with RE/MAX’s Ray Murphy and is within walking distance of Edge Hill’s cafe precinct – Collins Avenue, the Cairns Botanic Gardens and nearby parks, courts and schools.

The elevated 906sq m property sits atop Mt Whitfield and also offers 270-degree views over Cairns.

Just a short drive to the CBD, this fivebedroom home listed with Ray White Cairns South’s Therese Plath is surrounded by natural bushland offering privacy and tranquillity.

A four-bedroom family house on a generous 724sq m block, this property is just a short drive to Edmonton’s Piccone’s Village, and walking distance to parks and schools. It features a lowmaintenance living area, filled with an abundance of natural light.

The bright and colourful backyard of this four-bedroom home instantly provides a village feel. The 953sq m corner block house is within walking distance to all major amenities at Redlynch including private and public schools.

Just a short walk to the centre of Gordonvale providing access to parks, cafes and medical facilities, this four-bedroom house sits on an 846sq m block. It features a spacious open-plan living area and a modern kitchen.