Pullenvale, Australia

Looking for a rural getaway with room for their children and their horses, the homeowners embraced the idea of ‘The Barn,’ a standalone, barn-inspired building in the countryside. Cathedral-like ceilings and windows frame views of the surrounding paddocks and bushland. These details accompany an open ground floor highlighting the space’s indoor/outdoor connection. “This enables cross-ventilation and the ability of the family’s young children and their friends to come and go as they please,” says Paul Uhlmann Architects. A wall of windows in the kitchen gives visitors wide views of the sprawling grounds. Amplifying the rural setting, Australian hardwood was used frequently throughout the interior and exterior of the building.

Meant to be a place to gather with friends and family, the barn includes a bunk room on the second level. The room carries a western, country feel and includes multiple beds and ample space for multiple children. The upstairs rooms also include skylights to “watch the clouds go past during the day, and the stars by night.” Separate upstairs and downstairs areas give the family some separation when hosting. The children can host their friends upstairs while the adults entertain on the ground floor. Sitting areas are encased in light wood and filled with leather couches and plenty of additional seating. Two antler chandeliers hang off the barn’s vaulted ceiling carrying the space’s rural feel.

The home’s rounded arches, exposed wood and minimalist design bring a sense of modernity to the rustic area. Visitors are encouraged to sit and enjoy the views of the sweeping grounds at long wooden tables and western inspired seating. A driveway allows additional outdoor access and walkable space to explore the land. With plenty of space, a comfortable atmosphere and thoughtful touches horses and humans alike will feel at peace at this rural escape.