STAY | A luxury off-grid brutalist retreat

STAY

Set on Tasmania’s rugged Bruny Island, Tunnel is a remarkable off-grid retreat pairing the strength of the brutalist form with the softness of considered luxury. From its sculptural concrete structure and Danish Vipp furnishings to the gentle textures of CULTIVER linen, this retreat offers a sanctuary where guests can slow down, connect with the landscape, and experience luxury in its purest form. We spoke with owners Dane and Sophie about the design inspiration for Tunnel, the experience they create for their guests, and what ultimately drew them to the untouched beauty of Bruny island.

Commanding 400 metres of shoreline along the D'entrecasteaux Channel, Tunnel is an off-grid retreat on Tasmania's rugged Bruny Island. Showcasing a striking brutalist concrete design, Tunnel seamlessly blends art, architecture and nature. From the doorstep, guests can immerse themselves in the rugged beauty of the island's land and sea. Unwind in the outdoor bath, dip in the tranquil waters, cosy up by the outdoor fire or lay down a picnic on the deck. Every interior detail has been carefully considered, from the furnishings by Danish design brand Vipp to the bathroom amenities by Le Labo Fragrances and the soft textures of CULTIVER on the bed. An architectural centrepiece is the two chromatic glass lightwell installations that cast a daily kaleidoscope of colour across the polished concrete surfaces, creating a unique visual experience for every guest.

A single visit was enough to show us that this was the perfect home for Tunnel! Despite its proximity to Hobart, Bruny Island feels like stepping to the edge of the world. Its rugged yet breathtaking landscape continuously reveals new wonders, with each day offering a different scene - no two days are alike. It’s this untouched beauty balanced with a touch of wildness that initially drew us in and keeps us captivated.

Our architectural design primarily draws inspiration from Brutalism which can be seen in Tunnel's bold, raw concrete structure. Beyond that, we've incorporated a diverse range of influences. Our travels throughout Northern Europe provided us with rich inspiration for the art and interior furnishings, emphasising minimalist elegance and functional beauty. Additionally, the design of the courtyard showcases Japanese innovation, defined by clean lines, harmony with nature, and innovative use of space.

CULTIVER's unmatched blend of luxury and lived-in comfort perfectly complements the refined yet relaxed design of Tunnel.

Shop the look: Heavyweight Linen Bedcover in Ivory

Photography: @Adam.gibson | Stylist: @jackmilenkovic | @tunnel.tasmania