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Designed by Jack and Rob Hawkins, Mystery Bay House is a striking residence situated on a remote peninsula in New South Wales. Surrounded by national park, coastline, and a nearby lake, the home holds a powerful connection to its landscape. It sits on an axis aligned directly with Mount Gulaga, a sacred site for the Yuin people. This careful orientation grounds the home in cultural and environmental respect.

The design leans into natural materials, sustainable living, and self-sufficiency. It captures all its own water and generates 100% of its power on site. Rather than imposing on the land, the home responds to it—reflecting the textures, tones, and rhythm of the surrounding bush and sea.

Throughout the house, timber, stone, and raw finishes create a tactile experience. Large windows open to panoramic views of the lake and forest. Light shifts gently across the interiors, reinforcing a strong connection to nature. At the same time, the plan allows for flexibility—balancing privacy, openness, and flow.

More than just a beautiful building, Mystery Bay House has earned significant recognition for its excellence in both design and construction. In 2021, it received a Commendation (New House over 200m²) in the prestigious HOUSES Awards. That same year, it also secured a Commendation for Residential Architecture – Houses (New) in the NSW AIA Architecture Awards.

Together, these accolades highlight the strength of the Hawkins team’s collaborative approach and their commitment to place-led design. The home is not only functional—it is poetic. Every line, material, and orientation tells a story of land, culture, and thoughtful creation.

Ultimately, Mystery Bay House is more than a residence. It is a living response to landscape, heritage, and sustainability—quietly powerful, deeply respectful, and designed to last.

Architects: Jack Hawkins with Rob Hawkins

Carpentry: Drakos Bros Constructions

Nestled in the heart of regional Victoria, Flinder’s retreat pairs timeless architecture with modern luxuries. One of its most striking interior features is the Axis EPI950 three sided wood fireplace—a statement piece that brings warmth, ambiance, and undeniable sophistication to the home.

Designed and handcrafted in France, the Axis EPI950 is no ordinary wood fireplace. It offers a panoramic three-sided glass viewing area that makes the fire visible from almost any angle. Whether you’re relaxing in the living room, dining with family, or entertaining guests, the fireplace remains a stunning centrepiece.

Beyond its visual appeal, the Axis EPI950 three sided wood fireplace delivers exceptional performance. It functions as either an open fireplace for that traditional crackling charm or a slow combustion heater for high-efficiency warmth. This dual-purpose design ensures both atmosphere and practicality, making it ideal for colder regional climates.

Its high-quality steel firebox and clean lines suit both classic and contemporary interiors. In this Victorian country retreat, the fireplace is framed with simple natural materials that let the fire take centre stage. The surrounding interior features soft textures, neutral tones, and expansive glazing that invites views of the countryside indoors.

Because of its placement and clever integration, the fireplace also acts as a natural divider between living zones—creating separation without interrupting the flow of the space. This balance of form and function reflects the overall design intent: to create a luxurious yet comfortable home that feels as good as it looks.

In every way, the Axis EPI950 three sided wood fireplace enhances Flinder’s retreat. It brings together the best of European craftsmanship and Australian lifestyle, offering warmth, elegance, and unforgettable ambiance in one unforgettable feature.

Photography: Front Cover Photography