The Dream Home of Angela McLean and Peter Sharley: A Slice of New England in Netherby
Angela McLean and Peter Sharley have crafted a beautiful family haven at 10 Heather Avenue in Netherby, South Australia. After returning from the United States, where they drew inspiration from the charming New England-style architecture typical of their Californian university town, the couple turned their dream into a reality. “We built the house from scratch and designed it as a family home … and now it’s just too big for the two of us,” shares Angela, a retired doctor.
A Fresh Start in Netherby
In 1997, upon acquiring the property, Angela and Peter made the bold decision to demolish the “unlivable” house that stood there, laying the groundwork for their new life. By 2000, with the expertise of Alan Sheppard Constructions, they constructed a stunning home that reflects both their vision and their experiences abroad.
Design Philosophy Inspired by Nature
The couple aimed to capture the essence of traditional American-New England architecture, which appealed to them deeply. “The design has got that American influence and New England facade, which appealed to us, and we love the symmetry of the house,” Angela explains. This architectural choice is not just about aesthetics; it symbolizes a lifestyle enriched by their memories and experiences.
The Beauty of Location
Angela appreciates the location, revealing, “It’s a beautiful street, it’s incredibly quiet, and it’s a really lovely little neck of the woods that I think a lot of people don’t know about.” The tranquility of the area, combined with the proximity to the city, made moving to Netherby a perfect choice. From their vantage point on almost 1400 square meters of land, they can enjoy breathtaking views of the nearby Adelaide Hills.
The home’s setting is enhanced by the Waite Reserve at the end of the street and the walking trails at Carrick Hill. Living in proximity to nature became an integral part of their lifestyle. “The garden is absolutely superb, and yet it’s pretty easy care,” Angela notes, highlighting the harmonious relationship they’ve nurtured with their surroundings.
A Vibrant Ecosystem at Home
The couple’s garden is teeming with life. Angela reminisces about the native wildlife that frequents their yard, “We get koalas in the backyard, and often have ducks and ducklings… The bird life is incredible.” Their efforts to attract native birds through careful plant selection have made their home a sanctuary for a variety of species. “We regularly have a whole range of parrots – the eastern rosella is there very regularly, as well as lorikeets, kookaburras and a range of other native birds.”
A Personal Touch to the Garden
Angela praises her husband’s dedication to their garden, stating, “My husband planted all of the trees and bushes; he did all the plantings, so it’s had very much a personal touch.” Their garden, nurtured by Peter’s hands, has become a testament to their love and care—a cherished aspect of their family home.
Captivating Views and Modern Features
In 2021, Angela and Peter underwent a modern renovation, updating the kitchen, bathrooms, and pool. Together, these elements contribute to a vibrant living space that elegantly encompasses both traditional charm and modern convenience. Illuminated by the sun streaming through north-facing bay windows during winter, every room in the house offers a picturesque view of the garden.
A New Chapter Awaits
As Angela and Peter embrace their retirement, they now spend a significant amount of their time at their farm in Hindmarsh Valley, where they manage a bed and breakfast, Old Coach Road Estate. Despite their love for 10 Heather Avenue, Angela admits that the spacious family home has become too large for just the two of them following their children’s departure.
The property’s sale is now being managed by Kris Casey and Laura Prest of Harris Real Estate, marking the end of a cherished chapter filled with warmth, love, and memories.
