Tropical Treasure: Vibrant Nightcliff Home with Coastal Views Hits the Market After 40 Years

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In a rare listing on Darwin’s coastal strip, a strikingly colourful residence at 216 Casuarina Drive, Nightcliff, has hit the market for the first time in nearly four decades. Designed by renowned American architect Steven Ehrlich and built by local craftsman Tommy Valentine, the property boasts bold colours, sweeping sea views, and a distinctly whimsical charm that sets it apart in the Northern Territory (NT) housing scene.

Occupying a substantial 1,740 square metre double block, the home commands 48.14 metres of coastal frontage, a true rarity in Darwin’s tightly held Top End real estate. Its vibrant aesthetic, reminiscent of Disney’s Encanto, is more than just surface appeal. With timber accents, playful garden “ruins,” and an effortless indoor-outdoor flow, the property blends artistry with liveability. The layout encourages open-air living, something that suits Darwin’s tropical climate while also echoing a relaxed, resort-style design philosophy not often seen in suburban homes.

The home’s unique character is not only found in its structure, but also in its contents  it comes fully furnished, making it ready for immediate occupation or high-end holiday letting. The design caters to both privacy and entertaining, with an inviting pool, lush landscaping, and generous living areas that transition seamlessly to the outdoors. As Australia’s major cities continue to grapple with density and declining affordability, this Darwin listing is a reminder of the value and lifestyle still available in regional markets for those willing to step outside the capital-centric mindset.

While the housing conversation is often dominated by complaints of supply shortages and spiralling urban prices, this property offers a different narrative, one of bold design, land availability, and coastal serenity. In a market where cookie-cutter homes have become the norm, this Nightcliff gem stands out as a testament to creative vision and long-term ownership. As families and investors continue to assess their options away from congested capital cities, properties like this may prompt a fresh look northward. One thing’s for sure – whoever secures this home isn’t just buying real estate, they’re investing in a unique slice of Australia’s architectural and lifestyle heritage.