When you hear the word snug, you might imagine a dark, cosy little room tucked away from the bustle of the house — a retreat that wraps you up in shadows and silence. At BVDS, we see it differently. Our snugs are bright, connected, and open to the garden, creating intimate spaces that blur the lines between inside and out.

Rethinking the Snug for Modern Living

Victorian homes had parlours and dens — smaller, private rooms that contrasted with the grander reception spaces. Today’s homeowners still crave that feeling of retreat, but with a 21st-century twist: plenty of daylight, seamless garden access, and flexible use.

Our approach? Create sunken or stepped snugs that nestle comfortably into the fabric of the house, offering a sense of intimacy without sacrificing connection. Whether it’s a quiet corner to read, a kids’ play zone, or a cosy spot to enjoy morning coffee while gazing out to greenery, these spaces are designed to feel alive and welcoming.

Designing the Snug: Light, Materiality, and Views

The key to our snugs is balancing enclosure and openness. Large sliding doors, carefully positioned windows, and thoughtful timber panelling all work together to frame garden views and invite natural light deep into the space.

This approach to designing snugs — bright, sunken, and intimately connected to nature — has become a defining feature of many of our recent projects. From the playful layering in the Appleby Road house to the carefully composed garden views in Bristol House, and the serene window seat overlooking the pond at Hawthorne House, we are constantly exploring new ways to blend interior comfort with outdoor calm. Each project offers a fresh interpretation, but all share the goal of crafting spaces that feel both private and alive.

Using natural materials — warm timber, soft upholstery, sculpted joinery — adds tactile comfort and character, making the snug feel simultaneously part of the house and a distinct haven. The sunken floor or stepped transition creates subtle spatial layering that nurtures that sense of retreat, while the openness ensures the snug never feels claustrophobic or dark.

A Snug for Real Life

The magic of these garden-connected snugs is their versatility. They’re places for quiet moments, play, work, or informal entertaining. The design invites families to use these spaces in ways that suit their rhythms — a little cocoon connected to nature but perfectly integrated with daily life.

In many Australian homes, the “rumpus room” is a beloved informal space for kids to play, make noise, and unwind. Our version of the snug channels a similar spirit of casual comfort but with a layered sophistication — connected visually and physically to the garden, designed with natural materials, and crafted to be a serene retreat for all ages. It’s a flexible, family-friendly space that blends practicality with warmth and design intelligence.

Why Every Home Needs a Modern Snug

In a world of open-plan living, the modern snug provides essential contrast — a pause button in the day, a nook to slow down. It’s about layering spaces that cater to different moods, needs, and activities.

At BVDS, we believe that intimacy and openness aren’t opposites but partners. By connecting snugs to the garden and filling them with light and material warmth, we create spaces that feel small but never cramped — brilliant places to live.

Read about our new project in construction with a sunken snug by clicking here.