House of Mud and Straw | Meet The Makers
4 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms
Rates from $380 per night
House of Mud and Straw is a charming 4 bedroom home – the mudbrick construction and beautiful rural vistas provide the perfect backdrop for a little country jaunt. We Meet The Maker Cara, to get to know a little more about this delightful retreat.
Tell me a little about yourself
Well, where to start! My name is Cara and my husband Nick and I have two lovely children. We’re based in Melbourne though relish any opportunity we can to get to Trentham. The restrictions have kept us at bay however we’re looking forward to spending more time in Trentham and surrounds going forward.
I work in cyber security – so it’s worlds apart from hosting however with work getting more and more busy I needed an outlet for my creativity. The House of Mud & Straw has given me just that and I love hosting fellow travellers.
What attracted you to the area?
We initially looked around a number of regional Victorian locations however what attracted us most to Trentham was its proximity to Melbourne, the beautiful nature and also the lovely restaurants and cafes.
What’s the inspiration behind House of Mud and Straw?
The home plays homage to Alistair Knox who was a designer, builder and landscape architect. He focused on the use of recycled materials and pioneered modern mudbrick design. The home was built by an Italian family in 2016. They researched Alistair’s plans and designs then set about constructing the home.
The result is a charming and cosy home, set amongst in a beautiful sweeping landscape. We love it. The thermal properties of the mudbrick are great. In the cooler months the central stove heats the whole house – the mudbricks retain and slowly release the heat to create such a pleasant environment. It’s an absolutely pleasure to spend a lazy afternoon nesting inside, looking out upon the wonderful countryside.
I see you completed the hosting masterclass – I recently had the pleasure of talking to Sarah Andrews. Tell me about the experience
Yes, I did! It was an absolute joy. She’s got this magical ability to instil a sense of confidence and empowerment. What I really appreciated was her ability to help structure my ideas around hosting. The way she’s put the course together is simply beautiful.
What do guests love about the home?
Staying here is like a big warm hug! The home is positioned on rugged farmland, offering beautiful views over the wide, open paddocks. It provides the comfort and protection from the elements – a cosy experience.
Guests also comment on the little design details of the home – whether it’s the lounge nook, the living area with its vaulted ceiling or the little area for the kids to play.
We’re also 100 metres away from the Pig and Whistle, a charming little country hotel. It’s the perfect spot to pop down for a drink and a meal. In all, it’s the quintessential country experience!
What Joy does the home bring you?
Obviously we love spending as much time as possible here however I also really enjoy hosting. I try to imagine guests staying at the home and ensure I make it as comfortable as possible. Hearing that a guest has had a wonderful time brings me such joy.
It’s great to be able to share the experience with others.
If you could bring anyone away to House of Mud and Straw who would it be and why?
How interesting! Three people (or couples) come to mind. I’d absolutely love to host:
Hamish and Zoey Blake: As Australia’s newest tourism ambassadors I’d love to host them here. They just seem like fun, down to earth people that I could share a laugh or two with. I think regional Victoria needs the support after such a long lockdown.
Sage x Clare: I totally admire how Phoebe Bell grew the brand. Would love to have dinner with her and dissect the confidence behind how she styles.
Michael McCoy from The Gardenist: I’d love to host him – though we’d try and get a tip or two on the gardens! Recently we’ve been looking to regenerate and rejuvenate the landscape. Also, we’ve been thinking about truffle farming as the limestone soils and cool, crisp winters make it ideal.
House of Mud and Straw | Your Hosts Cara and Nick
Is a 4 bedroom country home that pays homage to Alistair Knox – designer, builder and advocate for an alternative lifestyle. This lovely mudbrick home is located amongst peaceful farmland, just outside Trentham township, and approximately one hour from Melbourne. Spend a few restful days in comfortable surrounds, enjoy the natural vistas and scenery, and explore the delightful offerings of Trentham.
Home: House of Mud and Straw
Photography: Hilary Walker
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