Across 73 hectares of land, the home sits on a commanding
position with beautiful views. Can you share some insights
into the planning process, including the home’s orientation
to the landscape?
There were a few positions considered when selecting the house
site. From the top of the property there are views of Mt Macedon,
but in the end, we decided to build further down and be part of
the hill rather than sit atop. It also allowed us to create a ‘house
paddock’ with a terrific northerly aspect, somewhat separate from
the rest of the farm.
The northern side of the home is predominantly glass to allow
sunshine to warm the concrete floors – much needed for Kyneton’s
cold winters. The western wall is the first thing you see as you
reach the top of the driveway, which gives an almost Brutalist first
impression. Made up of 450mm thick recycled concrete rammed
earth with zero penetrations, to combat the blazing western sun
in summer.
Simple,
honest,
homely.
The use of rammed earth walls, local bluestone, and blackbutt
timbers connect the home to its environment. Could you share
your approach to selecting these materials, and how they reflect
the character of the property?
We selected the recycled concrete rammed earth walls first, which
are sympathetic and respond to the basalt. We wanted the building
material to give the house an authentic feel. At night, the Blackbutt
timber ceiling has a honey glow from the lighting plan and works
beautifully with the recycled red brick. The polished concrete floors
are both hydronically heated in winter and cool to touch in summer,
granting the strong thermal properties.
What do you love most about the home, or its connection to
nature?
Every part of the home feels solid and secure. The glass obviously
lets the outside in, but it feels quite private with no neighbours
within cooee. In summer the large glass windows seamlessly stack
open to the deck and lawn. Yet in winter when the curtains are
drawn and the fireplace roaring, the house still feels cozy.
Summer 2025
In Focus Magazine
10