When Siobhan Blewitt and her husband Chris Hanson first happened upon the waterfront Sorrento site known as Kona Kahlua, it was like walking into a 1970s time capsule
Originally built in the ‘70s as a weekend escape for the first owners, it came with all of the classic mid-century features one would expect in a house of its era — from the wood panelling to the tiki wood carvings, original light fittings, and bright textured wallpaper.
Although it needed some updating before Siobhan and Chris could open the home as a short-stay accommodation, they approached the restoration in a way that focused on preserving the original features, and bringing them back to their former glory.
‘It was important to ensure the original features of Kona Kahlua were kept in place, from a design and creative aesthetic, to continue the legacy of mid-century Australian properties,’ Siobhan says. ‘This is an art unto itself, to always ensure the aesthetic is staying true to the building and its story.’
The property is a breezy 90-minute drive from Melbourne on the Mornington Peninsula, and was named after the original owner’s favourite holiday destination in Hawaii — a nod to its purpose as a place for entertaining, gathering and relaxation. Now, Siobhan and Chris have adopted a similar ethos in creating an inviting place of reprieve for holidayers to soak in the views and make the most of its proximity to the ocean.
Siobhan says, ‘the home has an eclectic link to entertaining, dinner parties, martinis and relaxation’.
‘A sense of calm sweeps through each room on entry,’ she notes.
Kona Kahlua sleeps up to 10 guests across five bedrooms, all with dreamy views of the ocean thanks to the home’s fantastic vantage point over Cameron’s Bight and Port Phillip Bay.
Pop down to the beach for a dip within minutes, and wash the sand off back at the house under the outdoor shower. There’s also a private games room fitted out like your very own beach box — complete with a TV, drinks fridge, darts board and comfy couches.
Or, if you’re keen to get out and explore, the stay is a short drive away from a fleet of local shops, eateries and things to do, such as the St Paul’s General Store in Sorrento and nearby hot springs and spa centres in Fingal.
‘Our key focus is for guests to relax and enjoy the many features of Kona Kahlua, the proximity to the beach, and the environment, all the while taking a moment to put their feet up and enjoy the comfort of home, in a luxury location,’ Siobhan adds.
Book your stay at Kona Kahlua here!
