CJH Studio’s Retreat Residence is more than an enchanting retreat that also doubles as a home for its envied owners; it is a canvas where history and modern design gestures come together amidst a unique and secluded natural setting.
There are some places that speak to you, and others that haven’t had their stories written. Retreat Residence is one of the former, with a whimsy that takes hold from the initial interactions along the long driveway, moving between toppling pine trees and across their dropped needles underfoot. Cassie James-Herrick (founder and director of CJH Studio) likens the experience to stepping into a “meditative sanctuary,” where every corner of the home beckons you to pause and savour the beauty of the surroundings.
The journey to bring Retreat Residence to life was not only slow-paced but involved a delicate balancing of past and present, finding a way to preserve the estate’s rich heritage while also infusing it with a contemporary relevance and new identity. In response to both the site and the building, there exists an interplay between how the rugged sandstone walls and slate floors interweave with one another, as well as how the softness and subtleness of elements such as timber and linen add a depth to the spaces.
The result is a melodic composition of sorts, where sensorial triggers invite exploration, while also captivating intrigue and encouraging interaction. The original outer walls create deep portals to both feel encased within and to channel light into the interior. Other areas, meanwhile, have increased openings where natural light filters in through layers of linen, casting a warm glow on the limestone accents throughout.
The sense of seclusion felt as a result of the landscape separating the home from anything resembling a neighbour truly captures the idea of disconnecting. The surrounding natural elements then act to amplify a feeling of being immersed somewhere special. By respecting the past of the site and bringing a similarly layered warmth from the surrounding woodland, Retreat Residence feels connected to place on many levels.
As Cassie reflects on the project, she speaks of her admiration for the home’s exquisite location and the seamless integration of tradition and innovation. “Retreat Residence is more than just a house,” she says. “It’s a living testament to the enduring allure of craftsmanship and the transformative power of design.” Imagined as an enduring home, the coming chapters for Retreat Residence remain blank and ready to be written, with the setting as a muse and inspiration.
CJH Studio
cjhstudio.com.au
