Sweet spot of Sorrento

On a rare northeast-facing block, this dual-winged abode filled with every creature comfort can accommodate a multigenerational family with ease

ENSCONCED in the busy suburb of Bundall, the quiet enclave of Sorrento flies under the radar of most house-hunters looking for waterfront home off main river.

Not so in the case of Kiko and Neil Budini, who love the area and have lived there for several years.

The couple had eyed off the large waterfront renovator at 4 Saywell Street, in which they now live, for some time before they had the chance to buy it.

“We always believed that the piece of land was very rare,” Kiko said.

“It’s very hard to find a northeast-facing home on a large block, with broad water views and a wide road.”

In 2017, the house hit the market and the Budinis pounced, snapping up the waterfront abode with a sandy beach for $1.6 million.

Built in 1985, the interiors of the house were tired, but Kiko said it had very solid bones, so instead of demolishing the property they decided to retain the existing floor plan and brick walls, before knocking out, updating and extending.

“The foundations were solid design-wise,” Kiko said, “and it had a great layout, very private with dual wings, so we kept the character but adapted it to have a more modern style.”

The result is a Hamptons-inspired home with dual-living capabilities, which has been the perfect sanctuary for the Budinis, their 18-year-old son and Kiko’s elderly mum.

“Downstairs we have a small kitchen and self-contained unit, which is where mum lives, while upstairs the master bedroom with ensuite and living space is away from a second master bedroom in the other wing of the house,” Kiko said. “It’s not only great for families but for visitors, because they have their own private space.”

What is special about this house is that no matter where you are inside it, you will have water and skyline views.

These become even more magical when surveyed from the pool-side lounges, a sundowner in hand.

The home’s infinity edge, saltwater pool, along with a boat shed and double jet ski dock on the pontoon, were additions made by the Budinis to make the most of the Coast’s water-based lifestyle.

Despite the homes’ generous proportions, Kiko said it was extremely energy efficient, with high gabled ceilings helping to control the temperature inside.

Meanwhile, lockdowns for the family have been nothing short of a breeze.

“There is plenty of space for everyone and when we’re not in lockdown, it becomes the perfect place to entertain,” Kiko said. “The house is very practical.”

Favourable market conditions have convinced the Budinis that now is a good time to sell and while Kiko said they were unsure of where they would settle, something tells me it won’t be far from their “hidden treasure” of Sorrento.