The lodges are designed to incorporate the best practice of eco design, with no sacrifice to comfort and luxury - the secret is in the efficient use of energy and resources. The property was selected for its spectacular views to the northeast, with the contours of the land forming a natural amphitheatre to the view. It was used for many years for market gardens due to its rich soil and natural spring before being abandoned and overrun with noxious weeds. Extensive rehabilitation and advance planting of the site was therefore necessary to prepare it for the Mount View Lodges. Trees and shrubs, such as Spotted Gum and Peppercorn have been chosen for their suitability to the area and for fire resistance. The plantings were placed around the perimeter of the site and between buildings to maximise privacy. These new plantings have also attracted large numbers of birdlife and at night the beady eyes of wombats can be seen lurking behind bushes. The buildings are sited along the contours of the slope with views over the valley below. A large spanning steel floor structure generates minimum disturbance to the landscape. Mt Bimbadeen to the west shields the property from the harsh afternoon sun. The living areas feature extensive north-facing glass to capture the sun and the view. Their polished concrete floors absorb the heat of the sun, keeping it cool in summer and radiating warmth back into the room in winter. Natural ventilation has been maximised in the design through the use of louvres, and 'stack' ventilation achieved by employing smaller openings to the south (in the timber-clad bedroom areas) and through the central skylight. Hot water is supplied by solar panels. The monopitched roof collects rainwater into two tanks. A wet composting sewerage system deals with waste, which is dispersed within the site more than 40 metres from the watercourse on the property to prevent contamination. Materials used for the construction of the lodges have been selected based on conservation of energy. This is either in their original manufacture or by their potential to be recycled. Timbers are radiata pine where concealed, and recycled or new growth spotted gum. Internal walls are generally lined with plasterboard. The ceilings are miniorb Colorbond steel sheet which is also easily removed.