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A New Way of Thinking – The Cambium by Carr
A space for creativity, purposeful collaboration and connecting with nature, dusting off the proverbial workplace cobwebs and reconnecting with what matters – this is The Cambium, Australia’s first boutique property for working retreats.
In the plant world, the ‘cambium’ is the site of cell regeneration. It is a fitting name for this project in Red Hill, Victoria, which was brought to life by Carr.
The four-acre site had three existing properties. With a less-is-more approach, constantly seeing beauty in the imperfect, the team at Carr repurposed and refurbished a lot of what was already there, like the original masonry arches that welcome guests into the main house, and old furniture, such as the timber reception desk, finding a new home in the dining hall.
The former stables have been transformed into a space that houses a boardroom, a workshop space and a business loft that has been stripped back, decluttered and given comfortable spots designed for quiet thinking. At the heart of the property is a large dining room, with a commanding stone fireplace and original wooden beams that blend seamlessly with the fresh white walls and contemporary furniture.
The 11 guest suites are a simple respite from the communal areas. Neutral colours and soft furnishings provide spaces that are calming and non-distracting, with large windows that look out to the surrounding bush.
Throughout The Cambium, there is a cohesive approach to design. It feels homey and rustic in a sympathetic nod to the building’s past and rural location. Yet, it is also subtle – rather than feeling ‘themed’, it feels very much of its time.
