Nestled atop the picturesque Bendigo Hills in Central Otago, the Bendigo Farmhouse stands as a testament to the fusion of personal history, breathtaking surroundings, and meticulous design. For the homeowners, this location isn't just a site; it's a cherished connection to their roots, having been raised at Bendigo Station. Returning home to build their dream abode, they've crafted a haven that effortlessly blends familial legacy with architectural brilliance.

The journey to the property is a winding adventure, navigating a gravel road through a rugged rocky valley. As you approach the home, you’re enveloped by awe-inspiring surroundings – farmland, vineyards, and New Zealand's majestic scenery.

The heart of this design symphony beats in the kitchen, where the back wall orchestrates the culinary performance, with a striking oak island stealing the spotlight alongside a colossal barn sliding door. Hand-selected marble surfaces, intentionally free of a sink, invite gatherings, entertainment, and preparation, allowing the material to claim its hero status.

From 360-degree views to strategically placed windows, the design embraces the stunning landscape. Natural materials like stone, timber, and a muted colour palette blur the lines between exterior and interior. Extensive use of oak, herringbone flooring, and Moroccan-inspired tiles add texture and warmth. Brass features provide a touch of opulence, while juxtaposing oak and black joinery seamlessly blends external colourings internally.

Every corner of the Bendigo Farmhouse tells a story – from the rendered schist fireplace to oversized pendants and patterned wallpaper, creating a masterpiece that beckons interior designers to dance with the rhythm of heritage, landscape, and design innovation.

Method behind the masterpiece

What was your inspiration?

The homeowner had always dreamt about having a home with a farmhouse look and feel located in the beautiful surrounds of Central Otago and knew this style would work well there.

They’re also huge fans of Shea at Studio McGee and Amber Lewis, both American Interior Designers with a love for taking a classic look and making it modern. These designers were a huge influence for the build direction and their style often referenced.

How does the door hardware fit into that?

Shea and Amber use a lot of vintage hardware and fittings in their projects and the homeowners wanted to include something similar.

They sometimes struggled with fixtures and finishes to suit their eclectic style, but the raw Rumbled Brass and classic styles of the Charleston lever suited the overall vision to a tee and ensured the hardware would look timeless in their home.

What did you match the finish to?

The handles for the interior custom solid wood doors were required to mirror the doors' classic farmhouse style, crafted from American Oak. The goal was to ensure that the handles exuded the same classic, timeless, and exceptional quality as the doors themselves.

What is your favourite detail in the home?

The custom oversized barn door, also made of American Oak, that had farmhouse crosses and matched the end of the kitchen benches. This feature door also coordinates perfectly with the cathedral ceilings and exposed beams in the living area.