Nestled into a rocky outcrop in Victoria’s High Country, Robbie Walker has designed and built an off-grid family home with integrity, beauty and the grit to withstand the extremes of its surrounding environment. Balancing openness to the exceptional views against the imperative for shelter from the elements on the exposed hilltop, Mansfield House is a home of two halves.

The building responds to the dichotomous demands of inhabiting a place inhospitable and awe-inspiring in equal measure.

The space
Mansfield House presents a panoramic view across the rugged and expansive landscape of Taungurung country – this terrain and its unruly weather conditions are formative to the home’s design. The north-facing half of the house features double-glazed, floor-to-ceiling windows on three sides, framing the most exquisite views. “To the east is Mount Buller, and then to the west you get these crazy sunsets and when the lake’s full you get to see [Lake] Eildon,” Robbie explains. A concerted effort was made to privilege the vast scenery with minimal obstruction from the building.

The house has a Master bedroom and ensuite, with stunning Mt Buller views. Down the long hallway are two small bedrooms, a bathroom and large laundry.

A video of the house can be seen on the Local Project website.

Guest access
Guests will have access to the whole house