Stay | Common Kosci

Your design for Common Kosci balances ruggedness with refinement. What was at the heart of your inspiration when you set out to build a cabin in the Snowy Mountains?

That contrast has always inspired us. Before moving permanently to Jindabyne to create Common Kosci, we spent countless holidays here, captivated by the rugged backdrop. Even when battered by the elements, the Snowy Mountains retain a raw, enduring beauty—and we wanted to reflect that spirit throughout the cabin.Inside, the alpine palette takes shape through earthy tones of brown, orange, and muted green. Every surface—floor, walls, and ceiling—is clad in chipboard to give the sense of being enveloped by the bush. Expansive windows showcase native tussock grasses, rolling hills, and the sculptural forms of twisted gumtrees, weathered by wind and fire. Varying ceiling heights and angles mirror the drama of the surrounding landscape.
Early in the design process, we came across a line that became our guiding vision: “The cabin has a captivating presence in our daydreams… while the coordinates on each of our mental maps may vary, the feeling remains the same—an island of comfort and calm, isolated in an inspiring landscape.” That perfectly captured what we wanted Common Kosci to embody.

The Snowy Mountains are such a dramatic backdrop. How has the surrounding landscape shaped both the design and the guest experience?

This part of Australia is utterly unique. Majestic mountains crowned with snow, twisted gums found only in the High Country of Australia, and sweeping hills filled with native plants create a landscape that’s both wild and welcoming. Unlike other regions, the Snowies don’t trade on endless sunshine—they celebrate the elements, from icy winds to crisp frosts. We wanted Common Kosci to be a sanctuary within this rugged setting. The cabin serves as a cosy retreat after a day outdoors—whether skiing at nearby resorts, hiking Kosciuszko National Park, trail running, fishing, or swimming in Lake Jindabyne. With this in mind, we added a mudroom for shedding gear, multiple heating options for instant comfort, and modern conveniences like a pod coffee machine and gas stove. But the design also invites guests to pause and connect. Nooks throughout the home frame shifting views of the mountains. The deck features a spa and hammock for stargazing under the alpine night sky. Wildlife is abundant, and floor-to-ceiling windows ensure guests feel part of the landscape at every moment.

Your living room features our undyed grey Classica rug, which feels perfectly at home in the space. What drew you to this piece, and how does it complement the atmosphere you’ve created?

Having lived in Byron Bay before Jindabyne, I was already familiar with Pop & Scott, and I knew instantly that a Pampa rug was the missing piece. Beyond its beauty, the story behind it—ethically handwoven from Argentine wool—resonated deeply with us. Three years on, after countless families have gathered around the indoor fire on it, the rug still looks as lush and inviting as the day we bought it. It’s become one of the most complimented features of Common Kosci: warm, durable, and timeless, with colours that harmonise effortlessly with the interiors.

How do you want guests to feel when they arrive and throughout their stay at Common Kosci?

Even during construction, there was a certain calm in the space. The builders would sometimes roll out yoga mats before work, finding peace among the sawdust and tools. That tranquillity still greets guests today.Driving up the dirt track, you find Common Kosci nestled among twisted gums. Its bold black burnt timber cladding contrasts beautifully with the earthy surrounds, while the interiors feel refined yet humble. The cabin is designed to nourish the soul—inviting, grounding, and warm. For families, it’s a place to slow down and reconnect. Children forage for kindling and play outside before gathering with their parents around the fire. Nights end with stargazing from the hammock. Guests often tell us it’s their favourite family holiday destination, returning season after season. That’s exactly what we hoped for: a place where people leave feeling closer to nature and to one another.

For first-time visitors, what are your must-do experiences in the Snowy Mountains?

In the warmer months, we love visiting the Gaden Trout Hatchery and Thredbo Picnic Area, both perfect for families with their swimming spots, rivers, and easy bushwalks. Mountain biking around Lake Jindabyne is another highlight, offering trails for all levels and the perfect cool-down swim afterwards. In winter, nothing beats a day carving the slopes at Thredbo, followed by a meal at Crackenback Farm or a schnapps at Wildbrumby Distillery. The combination of alpine adventure and cosy indulgence is pure Snowy Mountains magic.

If you had to choose one season to visit the Alpine region, which would it be—and why?

There’s a local saying: “You come for the winters, but you stay for the summers.” And it’s true. Each season here carries its own magic, from snow-dusted peaks to crisp autumn mornings and lush summer landscapes. But the real beauty is that no matter when you visit, the mountains offer something unforgettable.