the brief

The Shearers’ Quarters sits on a working sheep property outside Grenfell, positioned within the main family garden. The owner suspects it was originally worker’s accomodation for the farm - one room housed the original wash tub over a fire and the second room had an existing fireplace. While modest in size, the building had good natural light and a simple structure that made it a great candidate for reuse.

The brief was to create a calm, practical guest space that felt easy to use and comfortable to stay in. With a small footprint, the focus was on getting the layout right, building in smart storage and using a material palette that kept the rooms feeling open and relaxed. The aim was to accomodate the clients family with their own space to make a simple breakfast and cup of tea.

“Emily was my support pillar from start to finish… from floor plans to power point placement, tile choices and everything in between.”
— Alexandra

The client

Alexandra and Alex wanted to offer their family and friends a comfortable place to stay — close enough to be part of the home, but private enough to feel like their own space. With two young children and a steady stream of visitors, it was the perfect time to reimagine the old quarters.

They cared about keeping the design connected to their farm and family history. Timber boards from the old shearing shed were coated in decades of lanolin (from all the sheep that had been through the shed) were used as the decking boards for the front verandah. The lanolin adding protection against weather. Reusing materials from the property, incorporating heirloom textiles and sourcing second-hand furniture were all part of creating a space that felt personal and grounded.

*A tiny footprint that fits a lot in, with no space wasted and every area carefully considered.*

The space

With a compact footprint, the design needed to work hard without feeling busy. The aim was to improve function and flow while keeping the space warm, simple and easy to live in. This is at the foundation of all MARG. Studio designs.

Key decisions included:

A single flooring material throughout the cabin to visually open the space
V-groove panelling to introduce subtle texture without overwhelming the rooms
A reworked kitchen layout to improve functionality and preparation space
Built-in bathroom ledges for simple day-to-day storage
A restrained palette to keep the space feeling calm and uncluttered
Ironbark doors made from timber on the property, bringing character and durability
Reclaimed shearing-shed boards on the verandah for a sense of history

The result

The finished Shearers’ Quarters is a simple, comfortable retreat that feels generous despite its size. Every element has been considered, allowing the space to function well while remaining warm and inviting.

Natural light, honest materials and a mix of new and familiar pieces give the cabin its character. It’s practical without feeling plain, and relaxed without being overworked — a space that suits both the property and the people using it.