O u r   S t o r y

Shinwa — A Heart at Peace

Nestled beside the ancient waters and bushland of Thirlmere, Kintsugi Life Design has grown from a deep love of place, creativity and connection with the natural world.

We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of this land and pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging. We honour their enduring relationship with Country and the wisdom that continues to guide respectful ways of living with the land. We also acknowledge the Estonian families whose stories remain woven into the history of this district.

For many years, this property has been a family home and the home of our boutique villas. Over time, gardens, creative spaces and places to gather have emerged organically, guided by a desire to create environments where people feel welcome, comfortable and connected.

Two modest Estonian cottages have been lovingly restored into French-inspired villas, reflecting the warmth, character and gentle charm of the French countryside. What was once a simple tin shed has gradually become an atelier and courtyard where art, conversation and creativity continue to flourish.

The family home itself has evolved through a shared vision of creating calm, nature-connected spaces that encourage reflection, creativity and connection, most recently through renovations inspired by the simplicity, natural materials and quiet beauty of Japanese and Scandinavian design.

The Japanese concept of Shinwa — a heart at peace — offers a guiding philosophy for Kintsugi Life Design.

Not peace as the absence of noise, but a deeper sense of harmony: balance within oneself, meaningful connection with others, and a respectful relationship with the living world.

The Kintsugi Pavilion emerged from this vision as a place for creativity, contemplation and nature connection. Across the property are places to rest, reflect and reconnect, including a traditional wood-burning sauna, hydrotherapy spa, infrared sauna and quiet spaces beneath the trees.

We also offer nature-based workshops and experiences, including Forest Therapy, art and creativity workshops, reflective writing, and gatherings that foster connection with self, others and the natural world.

The surrounding landscape continues to evolve gently over time, with gardens and outdoor spaces being shaped season by season.

Kintsugi Life Design is still evolving.

Like any garden, home or creative practice, it continues to change with the seasons. New ideas find their place over time, guided by a commitment to thoughtful design, creativity and a deep respect for the natural world.

We do not offer perfection.

We offer birdsong at dawn, changing light through the trees, spaces for conversation and reflection, creative and nature-based experiences, and opportunities to reconnect with what matters most.

If your time here allows you to pause, breathe more deeply and experience even a glimpse of Shinwa — a heart at peace — then we will be grateful to have shared this place with you.

The Team at Kintsugi Life Design