Contemporary Barn – Cedar Hill by Jase Sullivan

Sitting on a generous site in the Byron Bay Hinterland, Cedar Hill breathes new life into an existing barn, extending its legacy with a new addition respectfully sculpted alongside it. Jase Sullivan elevates the traditional expectations of remote living through a careful curation of global finds and a refined detailing that embeds personality.

There is something iconic about the laid-back and casual lifestyle of Byron Bay, which seems even more removed from the traditional urban experience as one ventures into the established hinterlands landscape. Tucked away on two acres, Cedar Hill is the transformation of the existing barn on site, which extends out to create a contemporary yet respectful addition to the property. After many years of loving the site and often visiting the grounds to camp with friends, the owners wanted to establish the location as a more permanent retreat without compromise. Drawing on a love of travel, Jase Sullivan combines a distinct personal expression of the owners among the existing and new forms.

Both are given the ability to express an open connection to the surrounds whilst still feeling like their own entities.

Built by MRH BUILD, Cedar Hill transforms the original barn building on site into the primary sleeping space. An additional form, inspired by the traditional barn typology, is also linked to the original through a glass walkway. Both are given the ability to express an open connection to the surrounds whilst still feeling like their own entities. The transparency of the transition is considered a form of compression between the two barns, with the high gable ceilings creating a moment of release once inside.

Whilst respectfully weaving the new and existing among the home’s setting, the owners also wanted to bring influences from both a New York Soho loft together with a Malibu Beach residence. Generous shared spaces and the integration of ample glazing ensures the two styles are present. Through custom and collected furniture, artwork and lighting, the spaces become an extension of their own individual aesthetic. By retaining the original, natural materiality and integrating a contemporary lifestyle into the planning and movement through the two forms, the old and new coalesce seamlessly.

By retaining the original, natural materiality and integrating a contemporary lifestyle into the planning and movement through the two forms, the old and new coalesce seamlessly.

Optimising both coastal and bush aspects, Cedar Hill is a fusing of both styles and personalities. Whilst remaining grounded in the original narrative of the site as a rural location, Jase Sullivan overlays considered details and nuances that match the individual nature of the surrounds.