Take me to your cottage

Thought you’d never ask.

The first thing you notice is the sound. Or rather, the lack of it.
Then come the gentle punctuations of unusual birdsong — not the awkward squawk of sulphur-crested cockatoos, but delicate melodies drifting on the cool breeze. A quiet theatre of migrating species, flown in from all corners of the world, announcing that something beautiful is underway.

You are no longer on the continent of Australia.

You are on an island at the bottom of the world. Far from time. Far from the noise and the trappings that hold you together in a very busy life.

Welcome to my Georgian cottage in Tea Tree, the Coal River Valley, some 25 minutes north of Hobart, Tasmania.

Built in 1823 from solid sandstone blocks, hand-chiselled by convicts sent to Australia as punishment for petty crimes committed in England. Ironically, it took the incarcerated to build a free society here — and so we thank the scoundrels and notorious strumpets who stole a sheep, a shilling, a handkerchief, a loaf of bread, a roll of fabric… or more.

A lot has happened in 200 years. But the sheep still bleat on the surrounding hills. The sandstone still glows golden in the afternoon light. The neighbour’s cows still stare curiously at each pile of dirt dug and shaped for what is now unfolding.

After three years of observing, dreaming and designing, I’m thrilled to share that 2026 will see my “paddock-to-perfume” idea come to life.

Two new contemporary buildings will take shape on the horizon, and I want to take this opportunity to thank my architects — Liminal Studio — for all the support, guidance, and encouragement. Elvio, Peta and Guy — you did an amazing job in taking us from idea to planning approval.

The first is a four-bedroom lodge available for an exclusive farm-stay. Designed around the idea of the oldest form of garden: the “paradise garden”, everything will be anchored with experiences led by the farm’s true host: Mother Nature. There will be a lot of “heated rivalry” between the activities competing for your attention. Think spa rituals using our new Raconteur farm-produced scrubs, lotions and potions, an outdoor sauna, lavender-field bathing, seasonal scent safaris, orchard siestas, medicinal herb and tea gardens, olive-grove dining, and more outdoor fireplaces for cooking and conversation than time will permit.

The second is a large retail barn. It will house our perfumery cellar-door, a curated “best of Tasmania” edit of sparkling wine and rare local wines, a new providore store, manufacturing, distillery and event spaces, my personal perfumer atelier for teaching masterclasses, and finally, our new head office.

There is much to do. Many beautiful moments ahead. And no doubt a few mistakes along the way. I can’t wait to share this journey with you and welcome you to Raconteur Farm.

Thank you for all the support that’s brought us to this moment.
See you at the cottage.

Xx
Craig Andrade