Fran Derham and husband Mike engaged old friend and architect Nick Byrne of Byrne Architects to design their family residence in a remote rural spot, off the Surf Coast of Victoria. Mike and Nick had gone to school together, and the couple was impressed by his work designing unique properties down the coast.

From an architectural perspective, the form of the building is inspired by vernacular Victorian shed design, and this is echoed in the materials of Australian hardwood and corrugated steel. Nick highlights how the use of multiple species of timber in the interior creates a warm atmosphere that is ‘recognisable as a country home, yet with a strong sense that it is a piece of modern design embedded in the landscape.’ Fran echoes this sentiment, describing how the use of timber offers helps to ‘bring the outdoors indoors, and really allow guests to melt into both the house and the surrounding countryside in absolute comfort.’