the sanctuary
The planning process for The Sanctuary wasn’t rushed. It was intentional and deeply personal. With our family home and horses already settled on our eight-acre property, we wanted this retreat to feel both private and perfectly placed. From the start, we also knew that details like the Iver hardware would help define its character.
We spent time choosing the right location: angled to capture the sunrises and sunsets, sheltered from the wind, and still just a stone’s throw from the township. In the end, we found the perfect spot. It’s close enough that guests can walk across the road to the jetty, General Store, and Tavern, yet far enough to enjoy peaceful seclusion. From the decks, you can even hear the gentle lapping of the tide.
blending philosophy and place
To bring our vision to life, we teamed up with Homes by Penny Crompton. Penny introduced us to the concept of Wabi-sabi – a design philosophy that celebrates simplicity, natural materials, and imperfection.
It aligned beautifully with our eco-conscious approach and helped us create a space that feels grounded in nature while still offering indulgent comfort. Think raw timbers, earthy tones, and subtle textures that echo the neighbouring farmland and native trees.
defining luxury on the yorke peninsula
This time around, we asked ourselves: what does luxury look like on the Yorke Peninsula, in a short-term rental?
We wanted to stand apart from other accommodation options. My dad, George, and my partner, Luke, did the build themselves – bringing years of experience, creativity, and a brilliant zero-waste mindset. Penny elevated the project with her design expertise, challenging some of our early ideas – like my assumption that everything should be white (spoiler: it shouldn’t). She helped us see the beauty in blending with our surroundings instead of covering them up.
The result? A space that soothes. A little bit hotel, a little bit spa, and completely us.
personal touches and dream details
I’ve dreamed of having a four-poster bed since I was a little girl. Now it stands in the heart of a generous, light-filled bedroom – romantic, inviting, and effortlessly luxurious.
The Egyptian doors that frame the entrance were a marketplace find, and their beauty became a key influence for many of our material selections throughout.
Then there’s the bathroom – designed to feel like a spa day, every day. I imagined an outdoor bath experience that was still protected from the elements. What evolved was a fully enclosed space with large glass sliders that open to nature, yet seal off the heat or wind when needed.
Because we run solely on rainwater, a full-size tub wasn’t possible. The solution was even better: a stunning tiled hob bath I’m obsessed with. Paired with an open-sided shower and gorgeous tile selections, this bathroom is a space that deserves a place on your Pinterest board.
the role of iver in creating luxury
Of course, luxury is always in the details. That’s where our collaboration with Iver came in. Penny introduced us to their signature brass hardware, and we were immediately sold – not just on the look, but also on the feel.
We mixed and matched different ranges of Iver hardware, keeping a cohesive style throughout the retreat. The quality is undeniable. Even my dad – who’s fitted more than his fair share of door handles – has been telling his mates how good Iver products are. That’s a glowing review if ever there was one.
The brass finishes by Iver became the final layer of refinement, tying together natural textures and warm timbers with understated elegance.
a labour of love
From start to finish, The Sanctuary has been a true labour of love. Built by family, designed with intention, and styled to soothe—we’ve created a retreat that feels both grounded and luxurious.
Every detail, from the four-poster bed to the Iver hardware, has been carefully considered. And now, we can’t wait to share it with you.
