Off the grid luxury stay in Mudgee

Kavillo Studios is a luxury off the grid accommodation project in Mudgee, NSW, designed by Cameron Anderson Architects and owner-built by emerging sculptor, Michael Ferris. The architecture creates a contemporary camping experience through its distinctive tent-like roof structure that drapes over the interior spaces.

This off the grid accommodation offers a unique experience, allowing guests to disconnect and enjoy the tranquility of nature.

The folded roof appears suspended in tension, anchoring to a rammed earth plinth on the southwest corner. A substantial western rammed earth wall provides both thermal mass and privacy from neighbouring buildings while being shaded by the roof overhang. The building opens to southern views while maintaining privacy through the roof’s strategic folding, which also allows northern winter sunlight to enter through glazed doors.

The material palette reflects the rural context: galvanized sheet metal cladding draws inspiration from local shearing sheds, while rammed earth walls reference the area’s abundant pisé buildings. Each cabin provides an inviting off the grid atmosphere, perfect for relaxation and artistic inspiration from the owner stunning sculptures on display around the cabins.

Despite its strict budget constraints, the compact footprint of just 40 square metres helped to keep costs down. Sustainable features include double-glazed hardwood windows and doors, high levels of insulation, strategic shading elements and a small footprint. This completely off the grid facility incorporates an innovative flywheel battery storage system powered by 26kW of solar panels, ensuring that guests enjoy a truly sustainable retreat with 210,000L of rainwater storage for the studios.

Discover the 5 star Kavillo studios for yourself- check out the video below!

Photography by Amber Hooper.