I’ve always considered myself a city girl. I love being connected, busy and social. The fast pace of the city and its abundance of things to do always suited me just fine. And yet here I am, living on eight acres along the Great Ocean Road where the only things in abundance are cows.
It’s not just me. More and more people are moving away from the city and this tree change is no longer reserved for hippies, retirees and hermits. These days a new type of individual calls the farm, coast, bush or mountains their home. Young professionals like myself are embracing life outside the city and not sacrificing their careers in the process. One of the few advantages to come out of living through a global pandemic was the focus it forced us to place on our own lives, compelling us to re-evaluate our priorities and desires. For many, working from home became the new normal, opening up possibilities previously only dreamt of. Maybe it was possible to work and live the dream after all.
Ultimately our own reason for moving wasn’t to hide from the world but simply to find a happier balance in our busy lives. Many people around the world have been making this change too, creating their own unique place of calm amongst the noise. Whether it be a shack, cabin, cottage, farmhouse, villa or even a bus. Everyone’s dream looks different but one thing is for sure, there is a new generation seeking to create their own retreat away from the city and it’s a trend that’s not slowing down.
To me, an inspiring home is not just about architecture or interiors but the personality that brings it to life. RETREAT delves deeper into the homes and the stories they tell. Each retreat has been selected for its unique design, location and lifestyle. We explore the different motivations and challenges and how life has changed for those who chose to live a different way of life – and, of course, we’ll do all this while having a good old-fashioned sticky beak inside!
Retreat: Inspired Homes and Ways of Living
Author: Lucy Glade-Wright
Published: Hardie Grant
