Set among established trees on the outskirts of Bright in Victoria’s High Country, View Hill Residence marks the first stage of a broader redevelopment by the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF). Reimagined by Victorian based interior design practice Britt White Studio, the former master residence has been carefully renovated to serve as a short stay retreat for ANMF members, offering a contemporary interpretation of country living within a landscape shaped by outdoor recreation and seasonal tourism.
The project responds to a clear brief from the client: to create accommodation that feels generous, welcoming and genuinely restorative for members seeking time away. With many guests travelling in groups of friends or family and a demographic that is predominantly female, the design adopts a light hearted yet considered sensibility. Britt White Studio approached the interiors with a balance of practicality and warmth, shaping spaces that are both robust enough for frequent turnover and relaxed enough to feel like a private home rather than commercial accommodation.
Throughout the house, contemporary detailing is layered with subtle country references, producing interiors that feel calm, informal and quietly sophisticated. A palette of warm neutrals establishes a grounded backdrop, while deeper tones and moments of contrast introduce rhythm and personality. Timber and black accents appear consistently across the scheme, lending visual cohesion and reinforcing the connection between interior spaces and the surrounding landscape.
The renovation extends across the entire residence. New timber framed windows draw natural light deeper into the home while framing views of the garden and nearby hills. Architectural work to the bathrooms and laundry was undertaken by Bayley Ward, who reconfigured these service areas to better support group occupancy. Britt White Studio developed the broader interior scheme, including bedrooms, material selections, colour direction, furnishings and artwork, shaping an environment where aesthetic clarity and everyday usability work in tandem.
Sustainability and local sourcing formed an important part of the project brief. Many furnishings and fixtures were specified from Australian designers and established regional makers, introducing craft and character while supporting local industry. Materials were selected with longevity in mind, favouring durable commercial grade finishes capable of withstanding the demands of a high use holiday property without sacrificing visual warmth.
The resulting interiors carry a sense of quiet playfulness that reflects the activities drawing visitors to Bright throughout the year. Cycling, skiing, bushwalking and food tourism all form part of the region’s appeal, and the residence provides a comfortable base from which guests can explore. The atmosphere is relaxed rather than theatrical, designed to encourage downtime after long days outdoors
View Hill Residence represents the first step in ANMF’s longer term vision for the site. Future stages will introduce a collection of smaller holiday units, currently planned for completion in 2026, expanding the accommodation offering while maintaining the character established by the original house. In this initial phase, the project demonstrates a measured approach to investment, upgrading the existing residence without unnecessary over capitalisation while laying the groundwork for the broader development.
In its renewed form, View Hill Residence illustrates how thoughtful design can transform an ageing property into a contemporary retreat. More than a refurbishment, it establishes the architectural and interior language that will guide the future of the site, positioning the residence as both a place of rest and a starting point for the region’s many outdoor experiences.
