A Boutique Stay Inspired by Nature, Family, and Intention
We love seeing our pieces out in the world - and every now and then, a space comes along that truly captures the spirit of Feather + Oak. Highland Ten is one of those rare gems. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Merrijig in Victoria’s High Country, this boutique retreat was lovingly designed by a family returning to Australian soil after years abroad.
What captivated us, beyond the dreamy interiors, was the story it tells. At its core, the magic lies in the thoughtful details: reclaimed timbers, handmade ceramic plates, and yes, the linen cushions and throws crafted by yours truly.
Photo by @a.simple.meander
We sat down for a Q&A with Joy, the owner & creative force behind Highland Ten and got to know the journey that turned one family’s dream into a soul-soothing destination.
Q. What inspired you to create this retreat, and why did you choose the stunning High Country as its home?
We purchased our block of land in beautiful Merrijig towards the end of a seven year stint as expats in Singapore. Living in a condo as a family of five had us craving wide open spaces and dreaming of waking up to bird song and the stunning natural landscape of Australia. During one of our visits back to Melbourne, we took a road trip to the High Country. It is fair to say that Merrijig instantly captured our hearts.
Q. Being surrounded by nature is a huge part of this retreat’s charm. How do you incorporate the landscape into the guest experience?
The ten private acres that surround Highland Ten had to be at the forefront of our design. We were incredibly mindful not to compete with the beautiful, ever changing, High Country landscape. Its perfection!
We designed the property to enjoy a seamless flow between the indoor and outdoor spaces. Huge picture windows and sliding doors that disappear into the walls make connecting with nature easy. We actually increased the size of our deck during our building process as we realised it was the perfect spot to dine outdoors, watch the sunset and dance under the stars. Big steps from the deck, a swing under our beautiful gum tree as well as separate fire pit areas, create opportunities to either gather together or wander off for a peaceful moment alone.
Q. How would you describe the experience you want guests to have the moment they step onto the property?
When designing our retreat to be shared, we thought long and hard about experiences we have had ourselves as guests. What was it that drew us back to particular properties, hotels and holiday destinations? We considered details that made stays special as well as facilities that we felt were important when holidaying with kids and other families. A mud room and laundry room were a definite plus as well as both private and communal areas. We really wanted Highland Ten to feel like a beautiful escape from busy life. A big exhale the moment you walk in the door! We have tried to balance the rustic features with the feeling of luxury and comfort, carefully considering details such as beautiful bed linens, cozy lighting, luxurious towels and robes. We hope our guests feel the love that we have poured into the property and we hope they feel truly relaxed and enjoy time reconnecting with loved ones.
Q. Yes, every detail feels intentional - (we especially love seeing our cushions & throws featured throughout, adding warmth and texture!) How did you choose these finishing touches, and what feeling do they evoke?
Thank you!! From the moment we started planning the build our intent was to use natural materials. Recycled timber, stone, copper, leather, linen and handmade tiles are all elements that make the space feel authentic. I was most excited about designing the interiors, celebrating Australian designers and artisans wherever possible. The carefully chosen original artworks throughout the property are all pieces I fell in love with by Australian artists. Even the ceramic plates and dishes are handmade and love their unique form and organic lines. I have loved Feather + Oak for so long, and knew your beautiful cushions and throws would be the perfect fit for Highland Ten. Understated and luxurious. I’m an absolute lover of detail and that beautiful delicate fringing around your stunning linen cushions was not lost on me!
Our hope is for people to feel both rested and inspired during their stay….. To feel as if they are staying in a boutique country hotel as opposed to ‘house’.
Q. How does the retreat change with the seasons? Is there a time of year when it feels particularly magical?
One of my favourite things about the Victorian High Country is the changing seasons. Especially after living so long in Singapore where the weather is hot and humid year round. Each season has its own beauty and advantages. The dry dusty landscape of late Summer feels so ‘Australian’. Evenings taking in the sunset with a Aperol, rolling into star gazing is hard to beat.
Winter, with its snow season at Buller, is always action packed. Days spent on the slopes, followed by escaping the crowds to your own fire pit with hot chocolate and marshmallows is one of the reasons we loved Merrijig so much.
I have to say though, my absolute favourite is Autumn. The cool, crisp mornings, lighting the first wood fire, the changing leaves, as well as that golden light that streams through the windows in the late afternoon….. absolute magic!
Q. If you could go back and give yourself one piece of advice before starting this retreat, what would it be?
Be patient!! Everything takes longer and costs more than you budget for. We were determined to use local labour and this meant we often had to wait, however it allowed us to foster local community connections along the way. During the winter months many local labourers were booked up at Mt Buller. We also took our time to save for recycled timbers and unique furniture pieces, rather than making do with readily available alternatives. We spent many nights in an empty property, dwelling in the space, considering how we could fulfil our vision. We changed our minds along the way a few times however we tried to trust in the process, even if it meant taking our time (one whole extra year!) Despite the journey feeling like it really dragged on at times, it has been wonderfully rewarding and we would do it all again in a heartbeat (or maybe when the kids leave the nest!)
Photo by @nickskinnercreative
A Final Note from Feather + Oak
Highland Ten isn’t just a beautiful stay - it’s a heartfelt project born from family, patience, and an eye for natural beauty. We're so honoured to have our pieces be a part of this story. Whether you're planning a peaceful escape or gathering design inspiration, we highly recommend following @highland.ten for more glimpses into their beautifully curated space.
