Retreat Residence by CJH Studio

Within its idyllic setting in the Mornington Peninsula, Retreat Residence feels transportive for all those that enter through the tall trees that mark the driveway leading to its entrance.

There is a distinct romance at play at Retreat Residence, where the initial interactions with the site feel like a fairytale unfolding. The wooded surrounds provide an alternate backdrop for the typical coastal home, where the residence sits deep within the site and access is through a long stretch of far-reaching trees on either side of the main driveway. Combining both nods to its heritage past and a more contemporary openness and clean lines, the reworked house brings together a balance of its comprising parts through a simplified and calming lens. Cassie James-Herrick, director of CJH Studio, describes the home as a “meditative sanctuary,” where moments of quiet reflection blend seamlessly with modern comforts.

There is a distinct romance at play at Retreat Residence, where the initial interactions with the site feel like a fairytale unfolding.

The overarching approach behind the design of Retreat Residence was anchored in a deep respect for the site’s history and a preservation of the surrounding natural conditions. Maintaining that connection and allowing for clear access to views beyond the home was crucial. The integration of materials like limestone and muted timbers adds to the overall restorative feel, allowing for a natural connection to occur through materiality and finishes.

Softening the interior, linen drapes diffuse incoming light and act as a veil of privacy to outside. “We aimed to harness natural light as much as possible,” says James-Herrick, and light played an integral role in the overall cocooning effect of the home. The colours and tones of the surrounds act as inspiration for the palette that unfolds within, and through restraint and an honest expression, everything inserted on the site feels like a natural evolution of what existed prior.

The overarching approach behind the design of Retreat Residence was anchored in a deep respect for the site’s history and a preservation of the surrounding natural conditions.

As a project that unfolded over many years, Retreat Residence was a slow-burn project. CJH Studio readied the previous home for its coming chapters through a considered and curated approach, continuing key connections to the natural elements and emphasising a grounding within such a special setting.

Architecture by CJH Studio.