NATURAL CALLING

BLOOD, SWEAT AND YEARS SEES ONE VICTORIAN FAMILY FULFIL THEIR DREAM OF A HOME THAT CONNECTS THEM TO NATURE

-  SUE WHEELER

OPEN SPACES "Having a strong connection to the outdoors was really important to us," says homeowner and builder Hamish of his timber-clad home that was a labour of love for him and wife Lucinda, a landscape designer.

ENTRY The entrance (opposite) unveils a monochrome and timber scheme beyond. A photograph by Marnie Hawson, The Abyss, adds a decorative touch. 

FRONT EXTERIOR The home sits comfortably within its natural environment, the contrasting materials and the 'perfectly imperfect' salvaged stud fencing creating kerb appeal that's both characterful and low-key. "We're not flashy people and part of the brief was not to see the extension from the road," says Hamish.

ALFRESCO The family enjoys their new extension, where the open-plan kitchen and dining spaces blend with the alfresco area (opposite), thanks to bifold doors on either side and a large 'tilt' door. "The whole wall lifts up, creating a covered area and beautiful place to sit," explains Hamish. "On one side, there's a barbecue and on the other, a paved area with strategically placed rocks, which we use as stepping stones to reach the fire pit and other parts of the garden. Darcy loves to play on these and the rock by the house is often our 'table' for cheese and biscuits."