TOUR BOOKINGS OPEN: 9AM, FRIDAY 4 SEPTEMBER

Located on the traditional lands of the Kabi Kabi and Jinibara peoples, Donnington Ridge is an off-grid cabin in the Sunshine Coast hinterland exploring restraint, resourcefulness and living with less.

An existing structure, no larger than a double garage, has been transformed into sleeping quarters for a family of four. New openings frame the landscape, while charred timber, plywood linings and reclaimed materials elevate a utilitarian building into a warm retreat.

The family escape of architect Rebecca Caldwell of Maytree Studios, the cabin sits within 16 acres of koala-protected bushland. It is not a finished project, but an ongoing exercise in placemaking and a lifetime commitment to caring for the site: removing weeds, nurturing habitat and creating spaces for others to slow down and reconnect — a campfire, an outdoor bath, a book, wine in the sun and uninterrupted time together.

Solar power, rainwater harvesting, passive design and sustainably sourced materials support a light footprint. Somewhere between camping and a conventional home, Donnington Ridge reflects ideas central to Maytree Studios: using fewer resources to achieve more, finding the floor area that is just right, and creating spaces that feel calm, grounded and deeply connected to place.

TOUR TIPS

• Wheelchairs accommodated on site.

• No onsite parking except accessible parking – street parking applies.

• Bathroom available

• Drinking water and a sausage sizzle available.

• Bush location, so please bring appropriate footwear.

• Tour participants are welcome to bring a picnic blanket and enjoy the property before and after their tour.