After nearly a decade of travelling, Shane Hannan and Clare Tilyard returned to Shane’s hometown and took over the family business. Moving beyond traditional building methods, Shane trained extensively in sustainable construction techniques, becoming an early adopter of hemp masonry. Having built homes for many clients over the years, he was ready to channel his expertise into a home of his own.
On a site at the outskirts of Dungog, nestled along the banks of the Williams River, Shane and Clare carefully removed the existing asbestos cottage to make way for their “forever home.” The property, oriented East-West and with areas prone to flooding, presented both challenges and opportunities. From the outset, the design needed to accommodate work, rest, and social spaces, while also serving as a quasi-gallery for the art Shane and Clare had collected over the years.
The constraints of the site and the couple’s brief gave rise to a considered plan: workspaces are positioned toward the street, while private areas extend eastward, opening to views over the gully and river beyond. Two A-frame pavilions are linked by a central gallery, topped with a green roof that sweeps over the studio and main bedroom, unifying the home’s form with the landscape.
The workshop and ceramics studio buffer the interiors from the Western sun and the railway line across the street, while the central gallery gently ramps down into the heart of the house, revealing vaulted ceilings and expansive living spaces. Rendered hemp walls feature throughout, paired thoughtfully with hand-made terracotta tiles, reclaimed timber, and slate, creating an interior rich in texture and material warmth.
Every element of the home reflects a lifetime of collecting, learning, and experimentation. Bespoke joinery, antique furniture, and lush indoor microgardens contribute to the home’s unique, intimate character. Designed for sharing and celebration, Shane and Clare’s residence is a testament to their dedication, skill, and love for the craft of building—a home that is both inspiring and welcoming.
