Taylor + Hinds Architects have revitalised a beautiful sandstone cottage in the Tasmanian midlands, restoring the memories embedded in its walls over the last two centuries. Originally constructed in 1842, Bozen’s Cottage has largely been in generational ownership for over a century, retaining much of its original fabric. Its existing shell has been sensitively restored and paired with new materials that celebrate the stories of those who previously existed within its walls. The result is a home that unfolds with the warmth of a hug, carving out a protective enclave for occupants to continue the growing narrative already embedded within its frame.

The small four-bedroom Georgian cottage was purchased by its owners in 2017 in a complete state of dilapidation. Taylor + Hinds have respectfully overseen a careful and meticulous process of restoration and repair to bring life back into its structure. The exterior was reconditioned and accumulated layers of building fabric were peeled back to reveal the original Georgian aspirations of the interior. The process has been described by architects as an opportunity to preserve “the social history and cultural fabric of an archetypal Georgian townscape”.

This project stands as more than a restoration of an existing building. A desire to create beautiful living spaces is always an important guiding principle of every design project, however, in this particular instance, both client and architect were overtaken by a deep sense of custodial responsibility. The cottage has been named after its previous owner, Bozen Stuart Pennicott, whose family had lived in the house for over a century – a decision that perfectly captures the delicate design approach for a house that exists as a social and historical artefact.

The home is not only special in the way it contributes to the heritage of the Oatlands’ community, but also in its ability to form a country retreat for its owners. The client speaks of the property with fondness, explaining – “Bozen’s Cottage is where we relax, eat in front of a roaring fire, laze with a book, potter in the garden and indulge in hobbies and creative pursuits. The cottage gives us solace, enchantment and joy”.

Spaces have been largely designed in homage to the Georgian Era. Taylor + Hinds weave new finely crafted insertions with existing materials to bring contemporary comfort to the already handsome spaces. There is a raw, rugged quality to the home, the roughness of sandstone and natural timber speaking to the dry, earthy environment that surrounds it. Spaces unfold with a restrained simplicity, with a focus on highly detailed timber joinery and original ceramic ornaments rather than bold, attention-seeking new elements. Pit-sawn hardwood floorboards, hand-hewn ashlar sandstone and bricks all carry marks of convict labour and 180 years of continuous occupation. These character-filled original elements sit alongside a newly inserted timber window seat that is set into the depth of the stone walls – a moment where the new and the old speak in perfect harmony.

The memory of families of blacksmiths, carpenters and pastoralists are now forever cast into Bozen’s Cottage. A subtle and delicate material palette and undeniable respect for past custodians defines the highly refined project. The deeply memorable building welcomes the new with open arms while simultaneously celebrating the past.

[Words by Caitlin Miller. Images courtesy of Taylor + Hinds Architects. Photography by Adam Gibson.]