Awards:

• MBAV Best Custom Home Award $500k – $600k, Northeast Region 2019

Balancing energy efficiency, low-maintenance living and a strong connection to the Cathedral Ranges, this off grid home has been carefully sited to capture sweeping views from its primary living spaces and master suite, while remaining grounded in its rural setting. From arrival, the quality of craftsmanship is immediately apparent. Inside, the open-plan living area is defined by expansive floor-to-ceiling double-glazed windows framed in sugar gum, set beneath soaring three-and-a-half metre ceilings. These large openings draw the surrounding landscape into the home, creating a constant visual connection to the ranges beyond.

A warm and cohesive material palette reinforces this connection. Smoked European oak engineered flooring runs throughout the main living areas, carefully laid to guide the eye toward the views. Exposed timber beams and structural elements add depth and character, linking seamlessly with the timber trusses that extend into the alfresco zone. At the heart of the living space, a double-sided Cheminees Philippe fireplace sits on a substantial concrete hearth, becoming both a visual and functional centrepiece. Its considered placement allows the feature to be enjoyed from multiple vantage points, enhancing the sense of comfort and gathering within the home.

The kitchen continues the home’s balance of functionality and refinement. Clean-lined cabinetry provides generous storage, while a large Caesarstone island bench serves as both a practical workspace and a social hub, positioned to take in the surrounding views. High internal doors throughout the home enhance the sense of volume, with a sliding barn door to the butler’s pantry introducing a subtle rural reference through its exposed black track.

The master suite is designed as a private retreat, with a custom bedhead framing dual access to the walk-in robe and ensuite. Bathrooms are finished with floor-to-ceiling tiling and large-format bluestone flooring, complemented by bespoke details such as a crafted sugar gum niche—adding texture and individuality to the spaces.

Externally, the home’s material selection ensures durability and visual harmony with the landscape. Vertical sugar gum shiplap cladding is paired with wide-profile Maxline steel, both chosen for their low-maintenance performance and natural tonal qualities. Clean lines are reinforced through carefully detailed fixings and flashings. Architecturally, the home is defined by twin gable roof forms, their 27-degree pitch reflecting the surrounding hills. A lower-pitched linkway and alfresco zone provide contrast and shelter, while internally, a wide central hallway subtly separates living and bedroom zones, enhancing both privacy and flow.

Sustainability is embedded throughout the design. The home operates entirely off-grid, supported by a 7kW solar PV system with full battery backup, high-performance glazing, extensive insulation and meticulous sealing. LPG services supplement hot water and cooking, while generous eaves and considered orientation contribute to passive heating and cooling. Twin 32,000-litre water tanks ensure reliable water supply from roof catchment.

Delivered end-to-end by Hedger Constructions, this project reflects a holistic approach to design, material selection and construction. Recognised with an MBAV Best Custom Home Award for North East Victoria, the home stands as a testament to quality craftsmanship and thoughtful, site-responsive design—an enduring rural residence that is both highly efficient and deeply connected to its environment.

Photographer: Paul West Photography