In today’s world, the idea of living well often conjures images of luxury, convenience, or success in the traditional sense. But for me, living well is something much deeper—it’s about cultivating balance, finding joy in simplicity, and nurturing meaningful connections with nature, community, and ourselves.
I didn’t always have this perspective. Earlier in my career, I was immersed in the fast-paced world of design and landscape architecture. Although I loved the creativity and the sense of accomplishment that came with these large-scale projects, there was always something missing—an inner yearning for a life that felt more connected, more intentional, and more in tune with the natural world.
Images above: Before moving to the country, I spent six years managing the design and construction of The Australian Garden (Stage 2) at the Royal Botanic Gardens Cranbourne during my time as Senior Landscape Architect at T.C.L. This project was both challenging and incredibly rewarding. In many ways, the sense of accomplishment it gave me also granted me ‘permission’ to follow my growing desire for a life that felt more connected, intentional, and in tune with the natural world.
My first ‘treechange’ project, Oak & Monkey Puzzle, a 5-acre property and our home in the tiny hamlet of Spargo Creek, Victoria, was a privilege to create and an incredible life-learning experience.
Living in Harmony with Nature
One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is that living well begins with living in harmony with nature. Whether it’s the productive gardens I’ve designed or the landscapes I’ve nurtured over the years, I’ve come to understand that the rhythms of nature can teach us how to slow down, appreciate the present moment, and cultivate mindfulness.
In the garden, every season brings a unique gift. Winter invites stillness and reflection, while spring offers renewal and growth. When we align ourselves with these natural cycles, we learn to embrace both the beauty and the challenges that each season brings. For me, living well means allowing nature to guide not only my garden but also my life. It’s about honouring the slow moments, witnessing the changes in the landscape, and understanding that growth—both in the garden and within ourselves—takes time.
At Little Cottage on a Hill, even the smallest space has taught me that abundance isn’t about how much we have, but how deeply we connect with the things that surround us. Whether it’s a handful of freshly picked herbs or a vase filled with seasonal blooms, there’s immense joy in these simple, mindful moments. They remind me that living well isn’t about excess—it’s about appreciating what we have and making the most of it.
Little Cottage on a Hill, with its modest 515 square meters and wide verges in Daylesford, is an exercise in discovering how little it takes to live well whilst synthesising the best lessons learned from our nine years at Oak & Monkey Puzzle.
Finding Joy in Simplicity
In our busy, modern lives, it’s easy to overlook the simple pleasures within easy reach. For me, living well is about returning to those basics—spending time in the garden, preserving seasonal produce, or sharing a meal with loved ones. These moments are not extravagant, but they are deeply fulfilling.
When I first moved to Oak & Monkey Puzzle, I was drawn to the simplicity of country living. It was here that I rediscovered the joy of working with my hands, of creating a space that nourished both the body and the soul. There’s something incredibly grounding about growing your own food, preserving the fruits of your labour, and sharing those creations with the people who matter most.
In my experience, living well means finding joy in these everyday tasks. It’s the act of brewing a pot of tea with herbs from the garden or preparing a meal that’s been harvested from your own soil. These small, intentional acts bring a sense of peace and purpose to daily life.
Cultivating Community
For me, a meaningful life is one rooted in connection—not just with nature but with the people around us. Throughout my journey, whether through my workshops, collaborations or sharing knowledge with fellow gardeners, I’ve come to realise that community is at the heart of living well.
At Oak & Monkey Puzzle, I saw how people from different walks of life came together to create, share, and learn from one another. These experiences reaffirmed my belief that we thrive when we nurture connections with others. A well-lived life is one that fosters collaboration, encourages mutual growth, and builds a sense of belonging. Whether it’s the friendships I’ve made through gardening or the bonds created through shared creative projects, community has always been a central part of my journey.
Now, at Little Cottage on a Hill, I continue to embrace these values. I believe that living well means sharing what we have—whether it’s knowledge, skills, or simply time—with others. When we cultivate community, we enrich not only our own lives but also the lives of those around us.
A Life of Balance and Mindfulness
Balance has been a constant theme in my life—finding the equilibrium between work and rest, productivity and reflection. In a world that often glorifies busyness, I’ve learned, especially as I’ve grown older and more comfortable in my own skin, that living well isn’t about doing more; it’s about finding balance. It’s about knowing when to push forward and when to pause, listening to both the landscape and your own inner rhythms.
Mindfulness is essential to this balance. Living well means being present in the moment—whether I’m pruning fruit trees, teaching a workshop, or simply walking through the garden on a misty morning. It’s in these small, mindful moments that I find peace, clarity and joy.
Ultimately, living well isn’t something we achieve and then move on from. It’s a continuous journey—a daily practice of mindfulness, balance, and gratitude. It’s about creating a life that reflects your values, passions, and connection to the world around you.
I hope that by sharing my reflections, you’re inspired to explore what living well means to you in your own unique way.
