Awards:
- MBAV Best Sustainable Home, Northeast Region 2015
Conceived as both a private escape from city life and a boutique bed and breakfast, the home balances personal sanctuary with guest accommodation, all within a striking architectural form. Positioned on a sloping site, the design embraces the natural contours of the land, integrating the built form seamlessly into its environment. A rich palette of spotted gum timber and natural stone cladding grounds the home within its landscape, while rooftop gardens soften the structure and enhance its connection to the surrounding terrain. From the elevated deck, the outlook is immersive—offering a sense of calm and retreat that feels removed from the pace of everyday life.
Internally, the home is organised with flexibility in mind. A modular layout allows spaces to adapt to both private use and guest accommodation, with a clear distinction between communal and retreat zones. The double-storey configuration provides privacy when required, while shared areas—including a well-appointed kitchen, living spaces and amenities—are designed to support both family living and hospitality.
Adding a layer of playfulness and versatility, the home incorporates a dedicated recreation zone, complete with a climbing wall, fireman’s pole and in-ground trampoline—ensuring the space is equally engaging for families. A separate multi-purpose room has been designed to accommodate activities such as yoga, further enhancing the home’s appeal as a wellness-focused retreat.
Sustainability was a central driver of the project, reflected in both design and material selection. Recycled elements, including ironbark timber, have been thoughtfully integrated throughout, while the home achieves a strong energy performance through high levels of insulation, double block concrete construction and meticulous sealing. The rooftop garden contributes additional thermal mass, improving efficiency while reinforcing the home’s connection to the landscape.
Externally, the landscaped grounds are carefully resolved to work with the natural slope, linking the home to its setting while creating usable outdoor spaces. The result is a cohesive and innovative residence—one that not only responds to its environment, but enhances it.
This Marysville home is a confident expression of design versatility, sustainability and craftsmanship—delivering a unique property that seamlessly balances lifestyle, functionality and a deep connection to place.
Photographer: Paul West Photography