This dream garden house was designed for a young family of three (House tour)

Located in the inland region of the Northern Rivers in NSW, The Field House is a dream garden home designed for a young family, brought to life by the owners themselves – contractor Henry Tervenski and interior designer Olive Cooke. Meticulously crafted and deeply personal, the house embodies an approach to rural life, where a slow pace of life and sensory connection guide every decision.
The result of close collaboration with Fraser Mudge Architects and Cooke Landscape Architecture, the house is designed with meticulously placed accents. An open central area creates a focal point for the layout, while two wings offer a tranquil separation – one for the family's private space and the other for guests. The material language is soft yet confident, shaped by textured surfaces, natural textures, and clear lines, prioritizing serenity over complexity.
This dream garden home was designed for a young family and was gradually completed during construction – an advantage as both the contractor and designer were also clients. Over 8,000 meters of speckled eucalyptus wood make up the exterior cladding, with details meticulously considered down to the straight lines of the ceilings and walls. Inside, concealed appliances, sliding doors, and built-in wardrobes ensure functionality is elegantly hidden within minimalist forms, while allowing the family to personalize each room over time.
Cooke's interior design aesthetic prioritizes warmth over formality. Cream-toned Japanese tiles, wooden vanity cabinets, and soft furnishings create a sophisticated and refined color palette, while thoughtful details—such as the wood-paneled bathtub and sink in the guest bathroom—add depth to everyday rituals. The result is a dream garden home designed for a young family, supporting both comfort and joy in daily life, allowing everyday tasks to be elevated through tactile and spatial considerations.
The surrounding landscape was shaped in parallel with the construction process, expanding beyond the initial vision to include a swimming pool, sauna, tennis court, and wellness space. These elements now blend seamlessly into the site, creating a space for family gatherings, play, and relaxation. Framed views and meticulously designed gardens help the house connect with its surroundings, enriching the sensory experience and reinforcing its connection to the site and climate.
Designed for a young family, this dream garden house marks the beginning of a new chapter in the lives of its owners. As Cooke and Tervenski welcomed their daughter into the home they built themselves, The Field House was more than just a project – it became the foundation for memories. With its restraint, exquisite craftsmanship, and quiet ambition, it offers a unique model of a good life, both in form and emotion.
Field House embodies a rare blend of personal storytelling and architectural sophistication. It's a dream garden home designed for a young family, not only blending seamlessly with the surrounding landscape but also listening to it. In doing so, it invites others to envision how homes can evolve alongside their inhabitants, fostering a sense of comfort, belonging, and enduring identity.