Set on 10.3 acres (approx) in the peaceful surrounds of Muckleford, The Open Field House is a landmark 8-bedroom residence that redefines sustainable living. Designed to passive house standards, this extraordinary home combines architectural integrity, environmental consciousness, and lifestyle flexibility, ideal for families, multi-generational households, or as the foundation for a wellness retreat.
Just minutes from Castlemaine, the property nestles into its landscape with a deep respect for nature, offering pristine air quality, calming acoustics, and an energy profile that places it in the top 0.2% of homes nationwide. Constructed by one of Victoria's most respected builders, Sandford Build Co, the craftsmanship and care radiate from every detail in this home. Built to last for many generations, this home is ready to weather whatever climate may throw at it.
North-facing and bordered by the Muckleford Bushland Reserve, the setting is alive with birdlife and nature, while the Goldfields Equine Centre sits just across the road. From every window, savour the vistas across the surrounding grasslands to the ancient red gums, creating a constant visual connection to the landscape and enhancing the sense of serenity and space.
Sustainability & Passive Design Excellence
> Passive solar orientation excludes summer sun while welcoming deep winter light
> Zehnder ComfoAir 450 Mechanical Ventilation Heat Recovery system delivers continuous fresh, filtered air
> Airtight breathable membranes, thermal mass hempcrete walls, and high-grade insulation (R8.0 ceiling, R5.0 floor, R4.0 walls)
> Year-round stable temperature, humidity, and fresh air
> NatHERS rating of 8.2 stars (effective 9.1 with Passive House systems), placing it in the top 0.2% of homes nationwide
> Estimated to use just 15% of the energy of a conventional home
Lifestyle, Functionality & Retreat Potential
> Expansive large dam (30-million-litre capacity) with underground ring main servicing orchard, chickens, and a productive market garden
>200,000L of rainwater storage, 1,000m2 of rainwater catchment
> A biological septic system irrigates an orchard of 60 fruit and nut trees
> 3-phase power with 15-amp shed provision, ideal for commercial or retreat operations
> Generous kitchen designed to cater for up to 8 people, perfect for events or group dining
> East and West wings pre-plumbed and wired for future kitchenettes or bathrooms
> Outdoor kitchen-ready with water and power to landscaped front garden
Comfort, Wellness & Accessibility
> Daikin 5kW concealed bulkhead split system and Earthworker heat pump hot water
> Low VOC paints, non-toxic finishes, reclaimed messmate timber joinery and flooring
> Italian travertine tiles, Robert Gordon ceramic lighting, and dual bathing with an insulated bath
> Ambulant bathroom designed to disability access standards, threshold-free entry, and 1m wide doors
> Sound-isolated rooms with acoustic strawboard ceilings, ideal for privacy, reflection, or vibrant gatherings
> Custom window seat in the living room creates a perfect place to read, rest, or enjoy views across the landscape
> Pristine air quality supports those with sensitivities or health concerns
Additional Features
> Eight bedrooms, four with bespoke solid Victorian Ash built-in robes
> Two bathrooms, with provision for a future kitchenette in the second living space to support multi-generational living
> Premium appliances including two Smeg ovens, Bosch induction cooktop with central extractor, a dishwasher, a walk-in pantry, and a concealed European dish-drying system designed to keep surfaces clear and minimal
> BAL-40-rated double-glazed Miglas windows, bushfire-resistant hardwood decks and posts
> Single-plane roof design optimised for ember protection and water catchment
> Impressive 11.8m x 36m machinery shed with extensive capacity
> Acoustic sound reduction of 53 decibels between rooms, ensuring peace and privacy
The Open Field House is more than a home; it is a sanctuary of sustainability, wellness, and architectural innovation. Whether raising a family, hosting retreats, or creating a truly versatile multi-generational lifestyle, this property delivers comfort, vision, and an unmatched connection to nature.
