Swansong is the perfect base for a nature escape in stunning Northeast Tasmania. This unique dwelling is entirely off-grid and designed to bring the outside in. It 'floats' above the grasses and among the eucalypts with spectacular views across Georges Bay to the Tasman Sea.
*FEATURED IN THE DESIGN FILES 2023*
Minutes from the Bay of Fires and St Helens township, there is an abundance of adventure, local produce, and natural beauty close at hand.
Find us @swansong_tas
The space
The dwelling, with a modest 60m2 footprint, is tucked into nine acres of private bushland. Inspired by the idea of a ranger base crossed with a bush hideaway, every element is designed with the environment in mind – coaxing you outdoors.
Extensive double glazing brings nature’s finer details close-in to the living spaces while also drawing to the wider view. You may glimpse pademelons scuttling into the bush and superb fairy wrens darting around the native grasses in the courtyard. Sea eagles, black cockatoos, and pelicans fly above the treetops, while black swans gather on the bay below.
Swansong’s tough corrugated exterior contrasts against honey-toned timbers and cork floors inside, creating an inviting atmosphere. The natural materials and understated furnishings have been selected to sit in harmony with simple living in the Tasmanian bush.
The cabin ‘s two pavilions are connected by timber decking. A Japanese-style engawa (edge/veranda), constructed of web-forge steel extends around each; its many uses include a place to sit or a walkway above the surrounding native grasses and shrubs.
The first pavilion combines kitchen, dining and living. Settle on the sofa and watch the clouds roll over the bay or curl up on the window seat as the sunset lights up the granite boulders on the opposite shoreline.
The kitchen is equipped to create memorable meals. Our pantry is stocked with cooking oils, vinegars, herbs, spices, dry-goods and specialty tea and coffee.
Across the deck in the bedroom pavilion a queen-size bed is plumped up with 100% pure linen sheets and bed covers. Cast a sleepy eye to the sunrise over Georges Bay without lifting your head from the pillow or sit out on the deck to bask with a morning brew.
The shower ensuite is green and serene with a window through to the bush. Soft cotton towels and Aesop hand wash and moisturiser, shampoo and conditioner and body wash are supplied.
Guest access
You will have exclusive access to the dwelling and property. A secure shed is available on request for mountain bike storage.
Other things to note
While Swansong is a well-appointed accommodation, it challenges guests to respond to environmental cues. It is best considered as a unique environmental stay.
*Please read carefully below to ensure this accommodation fits with your expectations*
BEFORE YOU BOOK
The off-grid cabin is designed for low power usage. There is no air- conditioning, dishwasher, clothes dryer, or microwave oven. The primary source of heat is a wood heater. This means you will need to be active in maintaining a comfortable environment to enjoy your time at Swansong.
Opening and closing awnings and blinds to block the sun’s heat or to let it in at certain times of the day will be needed. Some blinds require you to walk along a 60cm wide, web-forge ledge (80cm from ground level at the highest point) to operate the awning cranks.
The clerestory windows provide important cross ventilation. You will need to use a step ladder to reach the winders.
Windows are fitted with sunscreen blinds that do not block out all light. Pack a sleep mask if you like a darkened room for morning sleep-ins.
There is no covered walkway between the pavilions.
In the rain, the timber decking gets wet.
Guests mustn't bring their own portable space heater. An electric heater running through the night will drain the solar battery and shut down the system.
There is a mini low-emissions wood heater in the living pavilion. You will need to read the instructions to ensure a safe and efficient burn.
The bedroom and bathroom are not heated. The rooms warm up passively from the sun during the day. In cooler times of year, you can keep all the windows closed and then lower the blinds in the late afternoon to lock the warmth in overnight. Enjoy the health benefits of sleeping cooler. Use the hot water bottle and extra blankets to be cozy in bed. This is how we roll - we enjoy the contrast of a warm living area and a cool bedroom. We appreciate learning to live with the limitations of an off-grid system, rather than demanding a climate-controlled space.
The water from our tank is filtered before it gets to the taps. Even so, health authorities recommend boiling tank water for 3 minutes before drinking. We drink from our water tank without issue; however, if you have any concerns, we recommend boiling first or bringing your own bottled drinking water.
Tiger snakes are sighted on occasion around the property. While they generally keep out of your way, exercise caution if walking through the bush.
Bushfire risk is a serious consideration. Enjoy the campfire only when the weather conditions are suitable, not when it is hot and/or windy. Keep the fire small, contain it within the ‘pit’ and never leave it unattended. If care is not taken, you could set fire to the place. Your responsibility is to be aware of the local fire restrictions; they can change daily.
We remove our shoes when inside to stop dirt and gravel from the pathways being brought inside, and we ask that guests do the same.
We understand that not everyone will be comfortable with the particulars of the property. Holidays are for relaxing, and other wonderful properties in the area might be a better fit.
However, if you appreciate the quirks of our unique property and are keen to enjoy the off-grid experience, we welcome you in.
Registration details
DA-219-2022
