Almost an English Village – Unique Artisan-Built Home

A superb example of owner builder passion spanning nearly four decades.

By Lynda Brighton

Rob Hadden was involved with The Owner Builder magazine in some way or another since first being featured in issue 19 in 1986. Over the next 36 years, his incredible building prowess appeared in many issues. Rob was always happy to share his knowledge freely, contributing to the magazine regularly.

Rob’s devotion to detail when creating his heavy timber framed earth buildings is astounding. His initial source of inspiration was a 1930s Gothic timber and mud brick farmhouse built by Justus Jorgensen in Templestowe. Research, experimentation and overseas travel shaped his projects over the years. Rob was never afraid to try his hand at new techniques or to ‘tweak’ traditional processes to suit the task at hand.

The time has come for Rob to say goodbye to his incredible creations, as it’s time to move on to a simpler place with minimal upkeep. Rob says, ‘What a ride it’s been though. Five buildings built since I was thirty is not a bad effort. They are unique and one-offs.’