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Set high on 20 acres of rolling hills, Nakari Vista is a residence that honours its landscape through materiality, form, and detail. Every design choice feels intentional—from the placement of windows to the textures underfoot. This is a home where big views and intimate spaces coexist with ease.

Materials play a key role. Drawing inspiration from its semi-rural surroundings, the house uses corrugated metal cladding, recycled brick, and timber to reflect a distinctly Australian vernacular. The structure feels honest and grounded. Simple gable roofs give the home a familiar silhouette, anchoring it in the landscape while maintaining a refined presence.

The gabled forms are not just aesthetic. They pivot intentionally to capture the best of the eastern and western views. Light pours in from multiple angles, changing the feel of each room throughout the day. Inside, tones remain warm and neutral, allowing the landscape to remain the hero.

Tactile materials enhance the experience. Recycled brick adds warmth and texture, while natural timber softens the interior. These choices create a strong sense of place and reinforce the home’s connection to its environment.

The layout considers both everyday living and guest flexibility. A semi-submerged undercroft houses a separate guest zone, ideal for visitors. It can also be closed off when not in use, making the home feel efficient without sacrificing hospitality.

Though contemporary in approach, Nakari Vista remains humble in spirit. It celebrates the Australian countryside through simple forms, practical planning, and a deep appreciation for landscape. It’s a modern rural home that quietly responds to its environment while offering comfort and calm in every corner.

Set among the Barrabool Hills near Geelong, the Royd Clan’s Autonomous House is a powerful example of how sustainable design can celebrate both land and lifestyle. From the beginning, Cam and Sally—owners of the 89-acre property—envisioned more than just a home. They wanted to restore the land, live off-grid, and raise their three children close to nature.

Initially, the property was overrun with invasive boxthorn weed. However, through their collaboration with Landcare, Cam and Sally removed the weeds and planted 2,500 native trees. They also set aside 30 acres for long-term regeneration. This rewilding effort not only enhanced the landscape but also laid the groundwork for a thoughtful home design.

For the house, they partnered with Nadine Samaha of level architekture>konstrukt, who had previously designed their North Melbourne home. Drawing inspiration from the property’s boulders, ruins, and the nearby sacred Mount Gulaga, Nadine proposed a design that felt grounded and expressive. As a result, the home consists of five angled pavilions that blend into the terrain while capturing northern light and cross-ventilation.

Importantly, sustainability guided every detail. Solar panels power the entire home, farm, and vehicles. An 80,000-litre water tank and two dams manage all water needs. Additionally, the Seguin wood fireplace provides natural heating, while timber construction, passive solar design, and double-glazed windows ensure year-round comfort.

Inside, materials tell a story. Stones from the original 1800s farmhouse were reused to build two internal staircases. In turn, they bring history and texture into the new space. Meanwhile, glass walkways connect each pavilion, encouraging daily interaction with the landscape.

This Autonomous House near Geelong isn’t just an award-winning design—it’s a holistic expression of values. Recognised by the Timber Design Awards, BLT Built Design Awards, and World Architecture Community, it proves that sustainable living and beautiful design can thrive side by side.

Architecture: Level Architekture

Construction: Level Konstruktyes

Consultants and contractors: Clair McVilly – City of Greater Geelong, Smith Land Surveyors, Southern Geotechnical, Eco Vision Australia, Vistek, Northern Environmental Design, Baxter Ecology & Associates, Beacon Ecological, BSA Building Surveyors, XLam, Hyne Timber, Building Bloc, Flexaseal Waterproofing, Ric Day & Co

Set on 100 acres atop Bendooley Hill, Monterey House is a peaceful retreat overlooking the charming village of Berrima, NSW. This custom-built home blends country warmth with contemporary elegance, offering a modern take on traditional rural living.

Natural stone features anchor the home in its environment. These materials bring texture, character, and timeless appeal. Inside, light hues and soft finishes brighten each room. The interiors feel calm, open, and fresh—ideal for long stays or weekend getaways.

The heart of the home is the open-plan kitchen, living, and dining area. Here, the Axis i1000 inbuilt double-sided wood fireplace by Sculpt Fireplace Collection takes centre stage. It offers both function and style, warming two spaces at once. Flames are visible from either side, creating connection and comfort throughout the home.

The kitchen continues the balance of charm and convenience. With high-end appliances and traditional design cues, it supports everyday living with a refined edge. Throughout the house, quality finishes and elegant furnishings elevate the space.

Monterey House includes four generous bedrooms, a luxurious bathroom, and multiple living areas. Each space opens to sweeping views of rolling hills and farmland. Outside, guests can enjoy an alfresco dining area, fire pit, and uninterrupted views beneath starry skies.

Beyond the home, the Southern Highlands region offers rich heritage and picturesque charm. Georgian architecture, wineries, and quaint local shops are all nearby—perfect for day trips and exploring.

Ultimately, Monterey House offers more than a place to stay. It’s a full experience. With the Axis i1000 inbuilt double-sided wood fireplace anchoring its core, this home brings together warmth, sophistication, and the calm of the countryside.

Balnarring Beach House is a striking example of refined coastal living on the Mornington Peninsula, featuring the Axis i1000 freestanding wood fireplace from Sculpt Fireplace Collection as a commanding design centerpiece. Resting on a sleek black steel bench, the fireplace draws the eye with its bold presence and adds warmth, atmosphere, and architectural balance to the space.

Designed by the renowned 11 Dimensions Architect Studio, this modern coastal retreat was brought to life to fulfil a young family’s dream of seaside serenity. The architects embraced a dark-toned palette, enriched with timber textures and natural materials, to craft a tranquil yet sophisticated interior. At the heart of the living zone, the Axis i1000 freestanding wood fireplace creates an elegant contrast and complements the home’s organic flow.

The dual-tone kitchen offers a visual dialogue between light and dark – pairing a soft marble splashback and island countertop with sleek black appliances. Generous glazing invites natural light into every corner of the home, including the bathrooms where oversized windows frame lush coastal views. Indoor greenery weaves throughout the space, further reinforcing the connection between the home and its environment.

A harmonious blend of contemporary design, natural materials, and ambient warmth, Balnarring Beach House showcases how the Axis i1000 freestanding wood fireplace elevates both form and function – redefining coastal living for a family seeking comfort by the sea.

Architect: 11 Dimensions Architect Studio

Parkview House in Thornbury, Victoria is a modern take on the Californian Bungalow. Designed by Elevate Building Group, this four-bedroom, two-bathroom home blends timeless style with family-friendly functionality. Set in a peaceful neighbourhood, it offers direct access to Alan Sheppard Reserve and a welcoming, community-oriented lifestyle.

At the centre of the home, the Axis i1000 freestanding single-sided wood fireplace by Sculpt Fireplace Collection makes a bold statement. It warms the open-plan dining and family zone while adding depth and atmosphere. Its clean lines and radiant heat create a perfect gathering point for any season.

Natural light fills the space thanks to 3-metre cathedral ceilings, strategic skylights, and large double-glazed windows. The stone-accented kitchen is a standout, with premium Bosch appliances, a waterfall island, soft-close cabinetry, and elegant pendant lighting. A walk-in butler’s pantry with an integrated dishwasher enhances everyday convenience.

Flowing from the dining area, the outdoor deck and landscaped backyard provide a relaxing space for entertaining or family time. From here, residents can walk directly into the green expanse of Alan Sheppard Reserve.

Additional features boost comfort and sustainability: a Tesla car charger, timber floors, zoned reverse cycle heating/cooling, plantation shutters, and a video doorbell. The home also includes a private office, stylish tiled bathrooms, and a fourth bedroom ideal as a retreat, guest room, or flexible family zone.

The master suite is a sanctuary, complete with a bay window seat and dual-basin ensuite. Every room has been carefully planned to combine comfort, style, and practicality.

Parkview House offers a seamless balance of elegance and everyday living. With the Axis i1000 freestanding single-sided wood fireplace anchoring the space, this home invites warmth, connection, and a life well lived.

Brighton 6 is a vibrant family home that radiates warmth, clarity, and timeless design. Positioned on a corner site, the residence blends elegant forms with nature-inspired materials. A soft palette, accented by delicate shades of green, sets the tone for calm and connection throughout.

At the core of the home lies a series of open-plan living zones. Large sliding doors open effortlessly to a garden and pool area, designed for easy flow and relaxed summer living. These indoor-outdoor transitions echo the principles of mid-century modern pavilions, celebrating light, space, and connection to landscape.

Architect Ross Berger has masterfully integrated architecture with environment. Locally sourced materials—such as rough sawn blackbutt timber cladding and a river pebble-covered roof—anchor the home within its coastal setting. The floor plan is both functional and fluid, supporting everyday family life while maintaining a sense of intimacy. From the sunken lounge to the versatile music room, every detail enriches the experience of movement and stillness within the space.

Native flora and coastal bushland have strongly influenced the material palette. This organic approach fosters a sense of adventure while enhancing the home’s overall harmony with nature.

A key highlight of the living area is the Axis i1000 freestanding wood fireplace from Sculpt Fireplace Collection. Positioned as a strong design feature, it provides both warmth and visual interest. Its sculptural form unites style and function, reinforcing the home’s commitment to quality craftsmanship and comfort.

Ultimately, Brighton 6 is more than a home—it is a thoughtfully crafted sanctuary. It reflects a family’s rhythm, architectural precision, and a deep connection to the natural world. The Axis i1000 freestanding wood fireplace is a perfect expression of this vision, anchoring the space with elegance and purpose.

Architect: Ross Berger

Design: Construction InForm

A stunning collaboration between Swell Building Group, Nathan Burkett Architecture, and Sculpt Fireplace Collection has brought to life a truly exceptional residence: the Merricks Farmhouse. This timeless estate offers the perfect balance of contemporary design, rural charm, and high-end living.

Set across approximately 9.4 acres (3.8 hectares) of pristine countryside, the property is more than just a home—it’s a full lifestyle experience. The design emphasises natural materials, bold contrasts, and clean lines. Carefully selected finishes highlight the textures of timber, stone, and steel, resulting in a space that feels both sophisticated and grounded.

Inside, the single-level home features five generous bedrooms, each with its own ensuite. An expansive open-plan living and dining area flows effortlessly to multiple outdoor living zones, encouraging seamless indoor-outdoor entertaining.

Of course, luxury takes centre stage. A state-of-the-art kitchen, wine cellar, and theatre room elevate daily living, while standout features like a golf simulator, yoga studio, sauna, and infinity pool take relaxation to the next level. Even the more practical elements—like the three-car garage, home gym, and vegetable garden—are delivered with polish and precision.

As James Hallahan of White Fox Real Estate aptly states:
“With every luxury you could imagine, including a wine cellar, golf simulator, yoga studio, sauna, and infinity pool – this property is truly special.”

Throughout the home, Sculpt Fireplace Collection contributes to the experience with bold, beautifully crafted fireplace installations that complement the home’s form and function. The result is a residence that embodies architectural excellence while capturing the true essence of modern farmhouse living.

This Luxury Avant Garde Farmhouse in Merricks sets a new standard for rural luxury—a home designed to inspire, relax, and entertain in every season.

Builder: Swell Building Group

Architect: Nathan Burkett Architects

Y House is an extraordinary coastal sanctuary located in Wye River, Victoria, meticulously designed by Andrew Simpson Architects and expertly constructed by Camson Homes after the destructive 2015 bushfires. Crafted to replace the original family retreat, Y House seamlessly combines resilience, contemporary aesthetics, and environmental sensitivity. Its unique Y-shaped design not only maximises panoramic ocean vistas but also ensures robust protection against coastal elements and future bushfire risks.

This beachside residence was built in response to the devastating bushfires in the Otway Ranges. With breathtaking views and designed for multi-generational living, the flexible Y-shaped layout offers separate wings for different family age groups. Despite challenging site constraints, such as waste management and potential landslips, the house incorporates safety measures and adheres to flame zone regulations while maximising the surrounding landscape experience.

Central to Y House’s design is its emphasis on sustainability and safety. The exterior employs fire-resistant materials, including metal sheet cladding and cement sheet lining, specifically chosen to withstand severe weather conditions and high bushfire ratings. The architects thoughtfully integrated these durable materials with the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape, allowing Y House to blend effortlessly into its coastal environment while maintaining stringent safety standards.

Inside, Y House offers a harmonious balance of tranquillity and sophistication, enhanced by the Axis i1000 freestanding single-sided wood fireplace. Warm timber detailing throughout the interior creates an inviting and calming atmosphere, perfectly complemented by this luxury fireplace supplied by Sculpt Fireplace Collection. This interior design approach reinforces the home’s exterior resilience, making Y House an exemplary model of modern coastal architecture, ideally suited to both its breathtaking natural surroundings and practical demands.

Architect: Andrew Simpson Architects

Builder: Camson Homes