Arabella and Chris Wilson have lived in this sprawling, rustic property in Jan Juc on Victoria’s surf coast for just over 5 years. The house was relatively new when they bought it, originally designed by Melbourne based Zen Architects and built sustainably with mud-rendered straw bale walls, and recycled materials – such as solid timber pillars reclaimed from the old Geelong Pier.
Since moving in, Arabella and Chris have put their own stamp on the place, softening the interiors slightly with the addition of blonde timber floorboards, a re-configured kitchen with cabinetry in a beautiful delicate blue, and sweet handcrafted details, such as the clusters of PET pendant lamps – the perfect finishing touch in these serene, earthy surrounds.
Arabella’s distinctive design aesthetic is apparent throughout the home, which she endearingly describes as ‘Rustic Robinson Crusoe’! She has a passion for vintage textiles, in particular patchwork quilts, many of which have been collected by her Mum, who is a talented seamstress. In fact, Arabella’s whole family seem to be creatively gifted (!) – her brother’s photographs feature throughout her home, whilst her Dad, Dougal Ramsay, is an incredible illustrator whose quirky drawings have inspired many of the textiles in Arabella’s kidswear label, Dougal.
As serial entrepreneurs and busy parents, both Arabella and Chris appreciate the change of pace that comes with living out of town. Having previously been based in Melbourne, the tranquility here is something the pair never take for granted. ‘Hearing the surf when you go to sleep, and waking up to the birds in the morning…. these simple things are what I love…’ Arabella says. ‘It’s a lovely house to have a family in, its secluded and at one with nature, our weekends are spent laying in hammocks or sitting around the fire pit.’
I am soo happy that more people move to regional out of city areas. This really helps to create more jobs, peacefulness and creates more economic opportunities and diverse lifestyle opportunities. Love this house, natural light and bush setting. Very ‘Australian’ and inspirational. Great story Lucy!
the light fixtures are UNREAL
I love the quietness of this home. What a tranquil space. Thank you for sharing it.
Very peaceful decor. Love that chair on the landing. Where is the rug from in the living room?
all the houses you feature sort of look the same, lovely but the same. love the lamps in this one. could you maybe mix it up a bit now and then though?
Love this article!! ??
Not sure if anyone else is having issues lately with viewing the photos. The arrow keys are not visible to scroll through the pics. It is super frustrating as I have to keep scrolling up & down to click the arrows. Anyone else have this problem?
Love this house and everything about it.
Great photos and I love Zen … one of the most amazing companies! That combo of lighting is amazing…great job!
I love this house! I saw it in InsideOut Magazine several months back. My daughter used to buy her clothes which were gorgeous!
I love the use of natural wood throughout the house – the aged trunks built into the wall, the staircase, and the wooden base of the dining room table.
Wow.. Those pics are stunning.. Thanx for sharing awesome content.
I love love love the blue kitchen. Wondering if anyone can tell me the name and brand of the colour.
Wow… Those pics are stunning… Love this house and everything about it.