Page 28 - Port Douglas Magazine 44

Splitting their time between Sydney’s Northern Beaches and the South of France,
HEAVENLY REIMAGINING THE REMARKABLE
Based in Sydney, the couple have owned property in Port Douglas
for more than a decade and just as they began to consider a
HAVANA change, fate intervened. On a morning walk three years ago, they
stumbled upon Havana, an oceanfront gem too good to resist.
Within 24 hours, it was theirs.
As captivating as it was, there was no denying it needed some TLC.
The 12 months that followed saw a meticulous renovation unfold
to bring it back to life. Originally a three-bedroom home, it’s now a
WORDS by Lisa Keller sprawling fi ve-bedroom sanctuary, with three of those bedrooms
reimagined as master suites, each with its own private ensuite and
Port Douglas has long been regarded as a tropical escape for breathtaking view.
the luxury holiday maker and with its endless number of 5-star Thanks to the work of renowned Sydney architect, Vince
resorts, it’s not hard to see why. But for those seeking a more Squillace, the two-storey open-living home is unique in its style.
intimate and elegant kind of luxury that feels less like a hotel Designed with larger groups and families in mind, it strikes a rare
stay and more like coming home, you might want to set your balance: Spacious yet intimate, offering privacy and seclusion
sights on 15 Wharf Street. while keeping everyone under one roof.
Perched effortlessly above Little Cove, with full 180 degree views The pool and spa, both newly installed, are temperature-controlled
across the Coral Sea, Havana @ 15 Wharf Street is redefi ning what — chilled for those hot tropical summers and heated for mid-year
luxury accommodation feels like. It’s a place where you can slip off escapes, creating an indulgent retreat year-round. It’s luxury, but
your shoes, settle into a sun lounge, and feel instantly at home — not the untouchable kind. It’s luxury without the fuss. “We wanted
all while indulging in the fi ner things. to make it liveable and homely,” Nathalie explains. “Somewhere
people can truly enjoy, without having to be too precious.”
A NEW KIND OF LUXURY “EVERYTHING FROM THE LAYOUT
Walking into Havana, it’s the view that will capture your attention UNDERSTATED LUXURY TO THE LITTLE LUXURIES,
fi rst. It demands it. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame sweeping ocean So, why Port Douglas? For them, it’s simple. “We’ve always found it HAS BEEN DESIGNED TO FEEL
views, interrupted only by the mountains of the Daintree that lay so relaxing here. There’s no traffi c lights, no nonsense. You can ride
beyond. It’s the kind of view that stops you in your tracks, makes your bike along the beach and drink cocktails by the pool, but it’s INTUITIVE, INVITING, AND
you linger that little bit longer and subconsciously begin to slow still not showy. There’s a beautiful vibe here that you just can’t fi nd UNMISTAKABLY EASY.”
down and enter your vacation state of mind. It was this feeling, this anywhere else.”
view, that clinched the sale for owners Kurt and Nathalie Jaggard. That same effortless charm is woven into Havana. Everything from
“We instantly fell in love,” Kurt remembers. “A lot of properties the layout to the little luxuries, has been designed to feel intuitive,
claim to be beachfront but this? This is as good as it gets.” inviting, and unmistakably easy.
30 Port Douglas Magazine & Travel Planner
the couple know a thing or two about world class stays and have implemented
this into their own slice of paradise. “We’ve built and designed it for us and what
we’d expect knowing that it will translate for others.”
This comes down to the little extras. The seemingly inconspicuous details that
make all the difference. From the beautiful French linen, king-size duck down
pillows and lusciously thick bathrobes and towels to the extra daybeds, fully-
equipped outside bar and hand selected trinkets purchased locally from Port
Douglas vendors, there’s nothing that hasn’t been thought of.
The Jaggards have also made a conscious effort to support the community,
thoughtfully weaving in local flair while also elevating the guest experience.
Indulgent extras like in-house massages, private chefs, even a personalised
grocery shop brimming with fresh, local produce ready on arrival, all to bring a
true taste of Port Douglas right to the doorstep.
Tucked away at the end of a lush, greenery-lined path, Havana @ 15 Wharf Street
location in town, its secluded charm only adds to its attraction.
is easy to miss — and that’s exactly the point. Despite being in arguably the best
Despite being just steps away from the buzz of Rex Smeal Park and Macrossan
Street, Havana remains a secluded sanctuary. “You’re not looking at any other
houses, so you get this incredible sense of total privacy when in reality you’re right
on the doorstep of town,” Kurt explains.
“It’s very hard to go anywhere in the world and be right on the water with a view
like this and still be a two minute walk to the heart of town. It’s almost unheard of.”
The convenience, Kurt says, only elevates the experience. “You don’t have to
think,” he laughs. “You don’t need a car, you don’t have to worry about getting
home, everything is literally right there.”
A NEW CHAPTER
For many, 15 Wharf Street is more than an address — it’s a place woven with
memories, dating back long before Kurt and Nathalie took the reins. Once a
coveted destination for weddings and events, its story has evolved. While it’s no
longer available for large celebrations, the stunning backdrop remains, making it
the perfect location for creative projects such as high-end photoshoots and fi lm
production, which can be arranged upon request.
If you’re already picturing yourself poolside, drink in hand, watching the sun sink
behind the mountains, let’s turn your daydreams into reality. Bookings require a
minimum three-night stay, with exclusive discounts for stays of fi ve nights or more.
Havana @ 15 Wharf Street is more than just a place to stay. It’s a sanctuary that
invites you to truly succumb to the laidback yet indulgent lifestyle for which Port
Douglas is so well known.
This is real luxury.
portdouglasbeachhouse.com