Energy-efficient homes, Passive House expertise, quality workmanship.
Mermaid Waters is known for its canal-front properties, waterways, established residential streets and close proximity to Mermaid Beach and the Pacific Ocean. With a mix of older homes, larger blocks and waterfront properties, the area offers excellent opportunities to create homes that better suit modern living while responding thoughtfully to the Gold Coast’s subtropical climate. Humidity, salt air, strong solar exposure, heavy rainfall and moisture management are all important factors when designing and building in this coastal environment.
We understand that the relationship between a home and its surroundings is particularly important in Mermaid Waters and Mermaid Beach. Views, privacy, natural light, outdoor entertaining and connection to the water can all shape the way a home is designed. For canal-front properties, we also consider the site’s orientation, prevailing conditions and relationship with the waterway, creating homes that make the most of their setting while remaining comfortable, durable and efficient.
Local knowledge. Thoughtful design. Better performing homes.





Posted on Google ciara wade23 August 2025Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Absolutely thrilled with the work done by Steve and his team at Purcell Homes. We originally engaged Purcell Homes to complete some building work in preparation for our new kitchen, which then turned into a bit of structural work as well. We knew we were in great hands the first time we met Steve. He regularly references standards when explaining the work that needs to be done, so you know it’s going to be correctly and safely completed, unlike some other tradesmen that had suggested ways to cut corners. Steve always had a solution for any problem we faced, and nothing was too much trouble or too complicated for him and his team. Our work was completed mainly by Reggie, Benita and T. All three worked so seamlessly and effectively together, and you could tell they all enjoyed working with each other and respected each other. Reggie was absolutely amazing, lead the team really well, took time to explain everything to us in detail and also engaged with the kitchen company and other tradies at times on our behalf which took a lot of stress and pressure off us. We also appreciated Benita’s care for our dogs during the works, as she would regularly make sure they were safe and out of the way of anything dangerous. During the project, a few things didn’t go as scheduled with other trades and even though it wasn’t Reggie or Steve’s fault or job to rectify it, they did, without any complaints. The Purcell Homes team clearly care about their customers first and foremost over anything else, and that shows by their willingness to solve problems that weren’t theirs to solve to keep the project running to schedule (including coming out on a Saturday) Things would have been a lot more stressful had we not had Steve and Reggie onsite. The quality of work is top notch, and the team would often stay a little later to finish the jobs properly. They always cleaned up everyday and left materials in neat piles for the next day. Truly couldn’t have had a better experience for our building work and we look forward to having the Purcell Homes team back in the future for some more renovations soon!Posted on Google Brett Gruber15 June 2025Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Such amazing communication, I knew what was happening every step of the way throughout the project. The site was tidied every day, and everything left neat in a corner of the job. All members of the team were amazing to deal with, so polite and friendly and were able to answer any questions I had with ease. The end result is absolutely amazing, and we couldn't be happier. The only complaint I have about Steven and his team is that they have set a ridiculously high standard for any other trade coming to do any work in my house.Posted on Google S M6 June 2025Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Highly recommend Steve and the team! They did an incredible job renovating our bathroom. It’s now the nicest room in our apartment. We couldn’t be happier with how it turned out. Thanks so much, Steve!Posted on Google Colleen Ingham27 March 2025Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I couldn’t be happier with the work provided by Purcell Homes. The work was finished to a high standard and the site was cleaned up prior to completion. My fence suffered minor damage due to recent weather, which, when asked was repaired the same day! Thank you Nic, Steve and all the team. I would highly recommend.Posted on Google Kathryn PH24 March 2025Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Steve and the team did an amazing job on our apartment renovation. We knew we had to gut and redo everything but we didn’t know how to go about it. Steve was really helpful through the quote process, making sure we knew about some great local suppliers for more interesting tiles, taps, etc, asking questions about how we wanted to use the space to suggest lighting options and so on. The job was completed on time and budget, and the quality is excellent. We highly recommend this company.Posted on Google Tom7 January 2025Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Thank You Steven and the crew from Purcell Homes, I am absolutely stoked with the your craftsmanship and communication! Could not be happier with the whole experience! Highly, highly recommend Purcell Homes for all your Renovation and building needs! #Recommended Builder #Gold Coasts Best! #10/10Posted on Google Erin Gander30 June 2024Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We’ve had a wonderful experience working with Steve and his entire team at Purcell Homes throughout the renovation of our home. Right from the beginning, there was excellent communication and we’ve been really happy with the quality of the workmanship and attention to detail. Steve’s building knowledge and problem solving skills allowed us the opportunity to achieve all the goals we had for this renovation within our budget. The team was friendly and easy to work with and we would not hesitate to work with Purcell Homes again or recommend them to others.Posted on Google Craig Taylor6 January 2024Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We've had Steve and the team at Purcell homes do a lot of work at our house for a number of years now. From complete bathroom overhauls to ceiling replacements and everything in between. No matter the job, the team has always done it to an exceptional high standard. They'll be our builder of choice for years to come!
Mermaid Waters has a distinctive mix of canal-front, waterfront and established residential homes, so every site is assessed individually. We look at factors such as orientation, solar exposure, privacy, views, access, drainage, humidity and proximity to the coast or waterways when planning a project.
For homes close to the water, material selection and detailing also need to account for humidity, salt-laden air and increased moisture exposure. Where properties are close to Mermaid Beach or the ocean, coastal wind and solar exposure may also influence the design.
For an existing home, we’d look at whether the current layout and building envelope are making the most of the site. Sometimes a considered renovation can unlock the potential of the property, while other sites may benefit from a more comprehensive redesign or rebuild.
Potentially. Homes with greater exposure to salt air, coastal winds, strong sun and moisture can place additional demands on certain materials and finishes.
Thoughtful material selection, appropriate construction detailing and regular maintenance can help support the long-term durability of a coastal home. We’ll consider the property’s location and level of exposure when recommending materials and finishes.
Many established homes offer excellent locations but may have layouts, finishes or building performance that no longer suit modern living. Our approach is to understand the site first, then design around it.
Rather than simply updating the appearance, we look at opportunities to improve layout, natural light, ventilation, insulation, glazing, energy efficiency and the connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. Where appropriate, we can also incorporate sustainable and high-performance building principles into the renovation.
Yes. The Gold Coast’s subtropical climate makes intentional design particularly important when it comes to managing heat, humidity, sun exposure and ventilation.
Our Passive House-trained team can incorporate high-performance principles such as airtightness, insulation, high-performance glazing, shading and controlled ventilation, tailored to the individual site and project. For canal-front and coastal properties, we also consider durability and material selection alongside energy efficiency and comfort.
With over 15 years’ experience, Purcell Homes creates thoughtful, modern and sustainable homes across the Gold Coast, Qld. Whether you’re planning a new home, renovation or knockdown rebuild, let’s build something that feels like home.