Jenni and Jennie initially imagined Wombat Barn in Daylesford would be their country weekender… but they explain ‘our time here grew from a few days a month to full time very quickly.’ We can’t blame them!
The couple first spied the block when walking past the site, and would occasionally ‘sneak a delicious apple from the gnarly old tree.’ The spot is located on the edge of the town, with the Botanic Gardens just over the back fence. They explain ‘the land had been on the market for a while, and once we envisaged a house to look beyond the neighbours backyards, rather than face the street, it felt right’.
The pair worked with architect Grant Amon to design Wombat Barn, and since it was built in 2011, have gently shifted into the home full time. The concept for the design was to combine the ‘warmth of an English Cottage with the lightness of a Scandinavian house.’ Inside, the warm white and natural wood are brought to life with a collection of ‘pre-loved’ furniture and furnishings. Jenni and Jennie describe ‘somehow we keep adding to this collection with local finds – the objects may change, but the feel remains the same.’
The real heart of this home is the country-style kitchen, where ‘everything and everyone revolves around the table.’ Jenni and Jennie are well-established members of the community (partly through Scrub Hill 1868, a local bluestone church they run as a wedding and events venue). They have become friends with local farmers and producers, meaning their table and benches are always laden with vegetables, fruits, produce and charcuterie from the area. Jenni and Jennie’s own edible garden also contributes to the bevy of gifts for the kitchen table.
In addition to providing endless fresh produce, the backyard is also home to the couple’s beloved guinea fowl, who roam and chatter through the garden. Wombat Barn has two sections under the one roof – one space for Jenni and Jennie, and one as a guest house. So if homegrown veggies, Scandinavian light, and pottering through the local flora and fauna take your fancy… book in for a weekend stay here!
