Country cool: The designer home in Merricks that turns the farmhouse concept on its head

Call off your search for the ultimate rural-chic residence – We’ve found it, and it’s in Merricks.

Clad in grey ironbark and with views across the vineyards to Western Port, this two-level designer home has finishes of Italian bluestone, Carrara marble, blackbutt flooring and limed timber.

Vaulted ceilings and picture windows maximise natural light inside the home, where there’s a fluid flow from one room to the next. The result is a heady sense of vast space.

The colour scheme follows a timeless neutral palette complimented by warm wooden tones, a stylish blank canvas that suits all decorating styles.

While the home does feel contemporary – note the bathrooms fitted with black tiles and stone basins – a few traditional country elements remain, from its gabled roof to the fully equip stables.

Sweeping vistas can be appreciated from most rooms, but the al fresco entertaining area unsurprisingly has the best view.

The luxurious pool and spa, for our money, is the best seat in the house.

Kay & Burton Flinders agent Andrew Hines is seeking offers between $5.5 million and $6 million.

Five more incredible high-end homes

Highgate Hill

One of Brisbane’s finest waterfront mansions, Nareke is set on a 3923-square-metre lot of wooded riverfront just two kilometres from the CBD.

Built in 1996, the Victorian-style residence comes with a boathouse, a five-storey viewing tower and two self-contained guest quarters.

Ray White New Farm agent Christine Rudolph is selling the residence by tender, closing December 1, and is looking for offers at $10 million-plus.

Tamarama

A swim in the pool or a dip in the ocean? The choice is yours at this Neeson Murcutt-designed residence, which cascades over four levels and is one block back from the beach.

A palette of zinc, oak and stone makes a good match for the coastline views, and there’s a self-contained lower level.

Alexander Phillips, of Phillips Pantzer Donnelley, has scheduled a December 8 auction for the property. The bidding guide currently sits at about $8 million.

Sherwood

The Terrace is a heritage-listed 1930s residence by Charles Griffin, with a striking concrete, glass and brick extension by architect Shaun Lockyer.

An entertainer’s paradise, it includes a pool, tennis court and extensive well-manicured gardens.

Adcock Prestige agent Jason Adcock leads the expressions of interest campaign.

Applecross

The curved rooftops and terraces at this sprawling mansion instantly capture your attention.

Past the winding driveway and the manicured lawns, you’ll find a residence filled with luxurious features, from custom staircases, a stone and Miele kitchen, a home theatre and a riverside pool and spa.

Eric Hartanto of Harcourts Applecross is fielding enquiries.

Mittagong

Nestled in the lush expanses of the Southern Highlands, Sedalia Farm is a beautifully appointed residence built in an American country style.

The main residence has lofty ceilings, formal and casual entertaining areas and an open-plan kitchen, while the nearby guest house has its own pebbled courtyard.

Expect to pay about $3.6 million through Eloise Haydon, of Haydon Home & Properties.