Japanese-Inspired Provider House Leans into Slow and Considered Living
Provider House, in Lenah Valley, Hobart, takes inspiration from Japanese design and the native Australian bushland, allowing guests to experience the beauty and functionality of Japanese design.
Words: Hande Renshaw I Photography: Adam Gibson I Architecture: Trias I Interiors: Tara Bennett I Build: Charlton Richards I Landscape Architect: Ross Mills I Landscape Build: The Veggie Patch Guy
‘Everything from the furniture to the kitchenware has been carefully selected to create a space that is both practical and beautiful,’ says Tara Bennett. Photo: Adam Gibson
The original cabin had a wabi-sabi aesthetic – beautifully imperfect. Photo: Adam Gibson
Provider House is built to bring to life the relationships and collaborations Tara Bennett has made with craftspeople throughout her travels and work. Photo: Adam Gibson
Everything within the cabin has been carefully selected to create a space that is both practical and beautiful. Photo: Adam Gibson
‘Each product at Provider House has a story and a history, and that makes it all the more special. By collaborating with artisans, we are able to create products that will be cherished for years to come,’ says Tara Bennett. Photo: Adam Gibson
‘I like the idea that people can use the towels, Japanese kitchen knives or burn a candle and then take home that experience. The house is designed with rest in mind so hopefully you can carry that feeling with you when you leave.’ Photo: Adam Gibson
Provider House is designed to be a tranquil retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Photo: Adam Gibson
Beautifully simple and subdued details at Provider House. Photo: Adam Gibson
Provider Store owner Tara Bennett first dreamed up Provider House during the 2021 pandemic lockdown, when she was flying back and forth to Brisbane to care for her mother who was unwell. She started searching houses online and came across an old, run-down wooden cabin with no water or power. ‘I knew it was right as soon as I walked up the crazy steep driveway,’ shares Tara.
Located just 15 minutes from Hobart’s CBD, in Lenah Valley, Provider House draws from Japanese design and the Australian bushland, an idyllic backdrop to showcase the beauty and functionality of the Japanese wares Tara stocks at Provider Store, displayed in a real-life setting.
Tara’s admiration for Japanese design and craftsmanship was first ignited after her first trip to Japan and has rippled through to her store and now the tranquil cabin. ‘I love that the Japanese celebrate craftsmanship. I fell in love with Japan on my first trip a decade ago. I was so inspired at how you can master one skill and it be your career and you can pass it down through generations. My grandmother taught my mum how to sew and my mum taught me how to sew, (which essentially started Provider Store) so it really resonated with me.’
Guests to the property have the opportunity to experience the products on display first-hand – almost all of which can be purchased through the Provider House online store or at the bricks and mortar space in Surry Hills, in Sydney.
‘I like the idea that people can use the towels, Japanese kitchen knives or burn a candle and then take home that experience. The house is designed with rest in mind so hopefully you can carry that feeling with you when you leave,’ she says.
The main rooms of the cabin were designed by Sydney-based architecture studio, Trias and built by Charlton Richards. The interior includes collaborations between Tara and both local and Japanese designers: At-Aroma created an exclusive Provider House scent – made in Japan, which was inspired by deep forest, running water and fresh air, Daitoushingu, the designer behind Ace Hotel Kyoto’s robes, created the Provider House robes, Shinto Towel created forest green towels that blend into the Australian bushland surroundings, and ceramic artist Milly Dent hand-built the basins in the house.
‘Each product at Provider House has a story and a history, and that makes it all the more special. By collaborating with artisans, we are able to create products that will be cherished for years to come,’ says Tara.
Provider House is now open to visitors, and reservations can be made through Airbnb. With the unique blend of Japanese-inspired design and Tasmanian charm, it’s the perfect destination for those seeking a relaxing and authentic holiday experience with an opportunity to really slow down and soak it all in.
‘I could live in the bathtub – it smells so good and it’s just a delight to soak in,’ says Tara of the ryokan-inspired cedar bathtub. Photo: Adam Gibson
Ceramic artist Milly Dent hand-built the basins in the house. Photo: Adam Gibson
Provider House includes three bedrooms, sleeping up to six guests. Photo: Adam Gibson
‘The house is imperfect, but well built. Same with the items we sell – they’re handmade but designed to last a lifetime.’ Photo: Adam Gibson
“The Japanese homewares we source are more than just utensils; they represent a way of life through craftsmanship and design. I wanted to create a space where people can experience both form and function then take it home with them”
The cabin features original timber walls. Photo: Adam Gibson
One of three cosy bedroom spaces within the cabin. Photo: Adam Gibson