For a true sea change, I invite you to be embraced by a heart and soul house. With total privacy and in a sheltered position, this solar passive, contemporary, rendered straw bale and celery top pine home overlooks one of the most spectacular views in Tasmania.

Watch the ever changing mood of the Mercury Passage running between southern Maria Island and the precipitous bluff of Cape Bernier from the deck or snugly behind the double glazed, floor to ceiling windows. Whether the sea is reflecting an azure sky or a full moon rising, it is just one of the house’s stunning features. Become lost in the view, watch for the resident wedge-tail eagles and let yourself be swept away by a sense of calm.

Set at the centre of 72 acres of bushland, privacy is assured. Just 45 minutes drive from Hobart city and 30 minutes from the airport, Bream Creek is a country community set among rolling green hills and bushland.

Upon entry from the sweeping veranda that runs the full length of the house, you are greeted by soaring ceilings, stunning celery top pine poles and polished concrete floors in the central living area. The straw bale construction and extensive use of recycled, rain forest timber creates a warm and inviting impression, but there is no compromise on comfort or quality.

The contemporary kitchen, with all the modern appliances, great bench space and a fantastic walk in pantry, is part of an open plan living, dining room. Steps lead down to an intimate sitting area with wood fire and a stunning feature wall made from locally collected stone. All this flows out onto a wonderful deck capturing the view and embracing an indoor outdoor lifestyle.

From the main living area are two wings. One end is a parents’ wing, complete with dressing room and a large bathroom with bush and sea views. The other wing has two large bedrooms, a sitting area, bathroom and laundry.

A mezzanine floor creates an inspirational office or study with the windows framing the view.

With verandas front and back creating shade from the summer sun, but allowing the winter light, this house embraces many solar passive and organic qualities. The incredible insulation of straw bales, teamed with double glazed windows and the dark polished concrete floors, ensures a comfortable living temperature throughout the house when other homes are relying on their heaters.

The solar hot water system, the stone wall and the way the beautiful curved surfaces catch the sunlight all epitomise a simple philosophy that makes a healthy, honest statement and translates into a house that just feels good!