little valley ‘summerhouse’

A small house with a big exhale

This two-bedroom summerhouse is our latest creation on our humble little farm. It has a comfortable sophistication in its design, but the real point is simple: make the most of the Hunter Valley weather, in every season.

Open to water, light and nature

A breezeway runs through the centre of the house and opens to the pond -  a body of water that sparkles in the sun and is home fish and wildlife. The open-plan living area and easy indoor/outdoor dining mean time slips away while you eat, talk and hang out with your partner or friends.

Designed and hand-built

The building was designed by architect Matt Elkan and crafted by the owner over two years -  a labour of love and the fulfilment of a long-held goal to build a beautiful and inspiring space.

The outlook

From your seat by the water, eyes travel across the pond to the paddocks. It’s serene and always interesting: fish in the foreground; alpacas, donkeys, the resident wallaroos and birdlife going about their day in the distance.

Light, seasons and comfort

Floor-to-ceiling glazing bathes the interior in light. In winter, the low sun reaches deep into the house; in summer, deep eaves and double glazing take the edge off the heat. All year, the water throws soft reflections onto the ceiling.

Off-grid, on purpose

Our farm runs entirely on solar, so we live mindfully with both water and electricity. With a little forethought, this modern home is as comfortable and convenient as any city place — just quieter.

Who we are (and aren’t)

Little Valley Farm is our home and working farm. We’re not a resort or a “country estate.” We love beautiful things and we like to make them ourselves. Most of what you’ll see has been made, repaired or revived by our own hands. We prefer Authenticity to Luxury.

Climate reality check

Summer can be hot and winter can be cold in the Hunter Valley. Pack for the elements. There’s no full-time air-conditioning, but ceiling fans and the building’s orientation help regulate temperature naturally. For cooler months, there’s a prestigious French Cheminees Philippe solid cast-iron fireplace to keep winter days and nights beautifully warm. We’ll share simple tips at check-in so you’re comfy from the start.

Our ethos

Staying here is about an authentic nature experience on a small working farm: fewer frills, more connection with the environment.

House rules

Adults-only. No children, infants or pets (no exemptions). Thank you for respecting our biosecurity

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OR see on AirBnB