Ever wanted your own indoor rainforest? This Galston mansion doesn't disappoint

Built more than 15 years ago, this Galston mansion has served current owners Keith and Diane Todd well in their time there, thanks to the meticulous care taken by previous owner and commercial builder John Van Berkal - it even boasts its own indoor rainforest. It is on the market with Ray White Dural selling agent Sandy Ward and a price guide above $4million.

Current owner, Diane, describes the home as special, after a search to purchase property in Dural resulted in them purchasing land to build their own home when Ray White Dural Principal Sandy Ward told them she had found exactly what they needed at 38a Crosslands Road, Galston.

“She said Di, I have the place for you, you don’t need to build. The second I walked in I bought it,” said Diane.

Designed as a family home, previous owner John spent three years designing and building the existing property, personally overseeing every aspect according to Diane. He even inspected every single tile that came from Italy.

“John put in a huge amount of effort in building this home,” said Diane, “He did some really unique things that I’ve never seen before. It was definitely ahead of its time.”

According to Diane, her and husband Keith have updated the property during their time living there, but were pleased to find that John had already included all the infrastructure needed to prepare the home for any luxury additions.

“We have a system which allows us to access the home from anywhere in the world from our phones, we can switch on lights or turn on the air conditioning on, anything,” she said.

The Todd’s who have been living at 38a Crosslands Road for over 13 years say it’s time to move, with their four children expected to fly the nest very soon.

“It has been fantastic having such a large home,” said Diane, “It’s been a really lovely entertaining home. The rainforest is spectacular for photos.”

However, the home was not exactly complete when they first purchased it. “The landscaping had not been completed, so we got rolling stone landscapes to come in and add to the vision that John had.”

John had also left the family all drawings and architectural plans he had drawn up for the home, allowing them to add or change anything they required or desired.

Now that their children are older, Diane and Keith are moving to Queensland, where they already spend 50 per cent of their time.

“It seems a waste for just us to have this enormous home,” said Diane.

“It is a perfect family entertainers home and I think somebody else could benefit from having this beautiful place.”

For images, click here.