RUSTIC & ROBUST

Nestled in the lush fertile Barwon Valley, this rural farmhouse practises the gentle art of sustainable living in style

- WORDS CARROL BAKER PHOTOGRAPHY RORY GARDINER

EDITOR'S FAVOURITE

The holistic nature of this project. More than 1.5 hectares of eroded land was rehabilitated with indigenous grasses, as well as a 350m-long wind shelter belt with native trees. In total more than 2500 florae have been planted

This single-level house sits proudly on 37 hectares, a delightful home that speaks directly to the time-honoured belief of eco-friendly living and family. By design, the homeowner Heather, who is a kindergarten teacher and art therapist, wanted a rural sanctuary that would serve as her own abode, one that offers design flexibility and adaptability.

The plan underpins fundamental sustainability aspects. The property is located in Birregurra, on Gulidjan and Wadawurrung country. The desire to embrace small-footprint living led to the owner's decision to make the property off-grid, with water tanks and solar, as well as a transpiration septic system and wood-fired boiler for heating. There is no mains water, sewerage or electricity connections.

Marlee Dawson, from Gardiner Architects, says this commitment extends to native vegetation restoration and erosion control. “This aligns with Heather's values of environmental stewardship and responsible land management,” she notes.