Sutton Farm is a one-of-a-kind off-grid home built on the Hardwicke family’s farm, Spring Flat, a property with history dating back seven generations. Designed by Jake Freebody of Free One Building Design and crafted by Adam Cools of AMC Homes, the house brings together earthy materials, sustainable technology, and a sense of heritage woven into each brick. Built for Sam and Selina Hardwicke and their three boys, the home is a sanctuary that’s both luxurious and deeply personal.
The Hardwickes envisioned a home that would feel embedded in the land, with clear, distinct spaces and an overall sense of connection. The house is built in three main zones: a parents’ retreat, a central family gathering space, and a children’s area. At the heart of this layout is a spacious living area framed by large windows that connect the interior to the rolling grass hills outside. “Each time we come to the farm, we get that incredible exhale feeling,” says Selina. “We wanted to build a house that captures that sense of peace, with a layout that connects the family but respects each person’s space.”
To reduce environmental impact, Sutton Farm operates entirely off-grid. A purpose-built shed holds 52 solar panels, batteries and inverters that power the property. Sustainability also guided the choice of materials, with approximately 15,000 recycled bricks salvaged from ‘Canberra Reds’ and timber beams repurposed from Sydney’s historic fish markets. The commitment to reuse doesn’t stop there; locally sourced clay was used to craft bathroom basins, and bricks from the original homestead grace the entryway, imbuing the home with stories from the past.
The design reflects a blend of rustic elements with clean modern lines. Recycled brick and dark-toned aluminium define the exterior, while a bold kitchen with polished concrete floors and exposed local stone sets a grounded tone inside. The main living area is open yet warm, with a timber ceiling and a sandstone wall thoughtfully constructed by a local stonemason. “We wanted every choice to honour the materials,” Sam shares. “The finishes and textures connect to the landscape, while the layout ensures we feel protected from the elements.”
Biophilic design principles bring nature indoors, aiming to improve wellbeing through light, views and natural materials. Expansive glazing captures light, allowing the family to enjoy sweeping views and connect with the landscape year-round. Inside, warm earthy tones prevail, creating a welcoming space, while the dark, moody kitchen provides a stark, striking contrast. Soft, neutral colours dominate the rest of the interior, offering a backdrop to the natural beauty outside. The luxurious ensuite, dubbed “the day spa” by Selina, features a handcrafted timber vanity and a custom basin made from clay sourced on the property, offering daily indulgence with a personal touch.
The home’s innovative features go beyond aesthetic appeal. Thermally broken, double-glazed windows regulate temperature, ensuring efficiency without compromising on the views. The family opted for skilfully integrated off-grid power and water systems, making Sutton Farm self-sufficient. A hall stretching 40m from the ensuite to the rumpus captures morning sunlight, illuminating the space naturally and providing a tranquil start to the day. The surrounding landscape is alive with native wildlife, a testament to the Hardwicke family’s commitment to enhancing local biodiversity. “The surrounding landscape and regeneration are important to us,” Selina says. “We have tried to enhance biodiversity in the surrounding houseyard. We have noticed a significant increase in birds, bees, butterflies, frogs and other species.”Sutton Farm is in true harmony with its environment, working within and alongside nature at every possible opportunity.
