Expat experience shapes striking Highton home by architect Lachlan Shepherd

News.com.au

13-07-2025

Architecturally designed, blending nature with contemporary elegance, this four-bedroom home is an example of masterful planning and construction.
For the vendor, ensuring that the home catered to his family's needs was at the top of the priority list when purchasing the large corner block (approx. 1200sq m) in Highton eight years ago.
'We were drawn to the area and this block with its potential for a combination of private, family-friendly living with amazing convenience,' the vendor says.
'With approximately 50m of no-through road practically to ourselves, it gave our young boys the freedom to safely skateboard, shoot hoops, and kick the footy with barely any traffic flow.'
This vision carried over to 72 Stoneleigh Cres, Highton's design by Surf Coast architect, Lachlan Shepherd, and the build by Phil Jessen of Torquay Homes.
'Lachlan didn't just understand our brief; he intuitively grasped the lifestyle we envisioned after returning from living in Shanghai for several years,' the vendor says.
'We wanted a home that allowed us to spend more time living and less time maintaining. His response was inspired: a low-maintenance, enduring blend of Corten steel, concrete, and glass that delivers a sleek, contemporary aesthetic without sacrificing warmth or function.'
The vendor says the vision was 'expertly brought to life by Phil Jessen of Torquay Homes,' resulting in 'a striking architectural statement that's every bit a comfortable, lasting family haven'.
The haven – featuring 4.2m-high ceilings, floor-to-ceiling windows, intelligent zoning, and immersive connection to nature – has allowed the family of four to make lasting memories.
'From the start, this home was designed to be a place where memories are made. With two active boys immersed in sports and community life, it quickly became the go-to hub for birthdays, family gatherings, and countless casual catch-ups,' the vendor says. 'The layout and landscaping make entertaining effortless — whether it's a sunlit barbecue on the expansive silvertop ash deck, a poolside hangout that stretches into the evening, fireside chats by the pit, or backyard basketball on the in-ground trampoline and lawn.'
With an array of impressive features, it's hard to choose favourites, the vendor says, but there are two that sit at the top of the list.
'The north-facing floor-to-ceiling double-glazed stacker doors and windows would have to top the list — they frame a panoramic outlook that shifts with the light and can be appreciated from virtually every corner of the home,' he says.
'In winter, the hydronic floor heating adds a quiet luxury — no fans, no dust, just a radiant warmth that rises from your toes to your head.'
McGrath, Geelong agent Mergim Ibrahimi is handling the sale of 72 Stoneleigh Cres, Highton. Price hopes are $2.79m to $2.95m.