3 minute read
Get Away
ROMANTIC IDYLL
SOAK AWAY THE STRESSES OF CITY LIFE IN THE MOST DREAMILY LOCATED BATH IN THE MOUNTAINS.
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Words: Jacqueline Forster. Photos: Kookawood.
Horticulturist Fiona Bruyn and husband Michael Schenko, a landscaper and photographer, always wanted to own a historic home but when they couldn’t find one in their preferred location, the village of Rydal, they decided to build their own ‘old’ house.
Using recycled materials from pubs, other houses and even a bridge, the couple designed and lovingly built their dream home, which they now share with guests as a holiday let. “We purchased the land in 2000 and built the house over an eight-year period,” Fiona explains. Sourcing materials such as reclaimed ironbark beams from a variety of locations, their hands-on approach proved timeconsuming but rewarding for the couple, who were able to achieve the homely and eclectic look they sought.
“We built all the stone walls by hand,” says Fiona. “I laid the stone while Michael mixed the mortar; a painstaking task but so worth it.” All the granite used in the house was collected from the property and local stone was also utilised in the garden, where Fiona put her horticultural skills to good use.
The upside to a new build was the opportunity to install a few modern luxuries. Large, open-plan living, dining and kitchen areas and big bedrooms make for comfortable entertaining and relaxing. Underfloor heating in the bathroom and mud room, reverse cycle air-conditioning and well-insulated walls help to keep the house cool in summer and warm in winter. While insulation doesn’t generally illicit wow factor, there’s plenty of wow both inside and outside this idyllic getaway. The cosy interiors are filled with unique items collected over a long period of time, and Fiona’s own artwork features throughout. Then there’s the outdoor bathtub.
NATURE’S GIFTS
The Instagram-worthy tub is just one of the many drawcards at Kookawood. Abundant wildlife, amazing views, the convivial fireplace and outdoor fire pit, plus the chance of snow in winter, draw visitors from far and wide. “We get a lot of repeat visitors who bring overseas friends and family because we have so much wildlife here,” says Fiona. “Kangaroos graze on the front lawn and wombats are a common sight, along with our resident kookaburra family and a large variety of birds.” The property is popular with twitchers.
Originally city dwellers, Fiona and Michael know how hectic urban life can be. “Kookawood is a complete contrast and antidote to the stress of city living, and it’s an easy two-and-a-half-hour drive from Sydney.”
Guests can choose to unwind in the peaceful surrounds or take advantage of the many great attractions nearby. Jenolan Caves, Mayfield Gardens and Lake Lyell are all in the vicinity and the major Blue Mountains sights are just 35 minutes away.
Lithgow town is a 20-minute drive, which is handy if you need provisions, and there are lots of great country pubs, farmer markets, restaurants, vineyards and cafés in the mountains and surrounding area.
Children aren’t allowed at Kookawood due to the large amount of irreplaceable collectables and the proximity of the dam and pond to the house, but fur babies are welcome provided they are well behaved and won’t chase the wildlife. The rear garden is fenced, and the house has a doggie door.
It’s worth noting that the large property is extremely private. Guests can explore the valley and nearby pine forest via walking trails and say ‘Hi’ to the friendly inhabitants. “We have two miniature horses, a couple of cows and a large horse who is known to pop his head into open car windows if you stop to say hello,” says Fiona. Her tip: “Bring carrots or he won’t let you pass!”
