Awards:

  • MBAV Victorian Regional Builder of the Year 2011
  • MBAV Regional Builder of the Year, Northeast Region 2011
  • MBAV Victorian Best Custom Home $1M – $3M 2011
  • MBAV Best Custom Home Over $500k, Northeast Region 2011

Set across 378 hectares in Thornton, two hours northeast of Melbourne, this remarkable rural estate is a refined expression of contemporary country living. Home to a renowned Hereford Poll stud, the property spans rolling river flats rising to elevated pastures, with sweeping views across the Rubicon Valley and Cathedral Ranges. The estate comprises a main homestead, a two-storey guesthouse and a separate manager’s residence. Completed to an exceptional standard, the project has received multiple MBAV awards and widespread industry recognition.

Thornton Rural Estate, A multi award winning property providing state-of-the-art luxury living with 360-degree views, by Hedger Constructions
Thornton Rural Estate, A multi award winning property providing state-of-the-art luxury living with 360-degree views, by Hedger Constructions

Positioned on an rounded garden setting, the homestead captures uninterrupted 360-degree views. Its design is defined by a series of gabled pavilions connected by light-filled central spaces, creating a seamless balance between privacy and connection. Each room is oriented to the landscape, drawing natural light and expansive vistas deep into the home.

A timeless material palette underpins the design, with rammed earth, natural stone, Australian timbers and polished concrete combining to create a contemporary yet grounded aesthetic. Externally, soaring rammed earth walls provide thermal mass, durability and fire resistance, while extensive floor-to-ceiling double glazing—framed by steel perimeter beams—showcases the surrounding landscape.

Thornton Rural Estate, A multi award winning property providing state-of-the-art luxury living with 360-degree views, by Hedger Constructions
Thornton Rural Estate, A multi award winning property providing state-of-the-art luxury living with 360-degree views, by Hedger Constructions

At the heart of the home, a central gallery links the private and guest wings to an open-plan living zone. Here, a wood fireplace anchors the space, sitting on an elevated resin buffed concrete hearth, taking full advantage of the views to the pool area and beyond. Porcelain floor tiles, gently warmed with underfloor heating, ensure comfort. The adjacent formal dining space accommodates a 10-seat dining table, softly illuminated by a bespoke chandelier. From here, sliding doors provide access to the undercover outdoor dining area.

Thornton Rural Estate, A multi award winning property providing state-of-the-art luxury living with 360-degree views, by Hedger Constructions

The kitchen is both highly functional and sculptural, featuring a striking T-shaped marble island with integrated premium appliances and a 6-seat informal dining space at the opposing side. Accent pendant lights establish an intimate atmosphere, highlighting the luminescent veins of green and gold throughout the stone. Bespoke custom cabinetry merges seamlessly with travertine benchtops, providing ample food preparation space. A generous butler’s pantry with integrated cool room also allows for the owners to organise produce in advance when they are away.

Thornton Rural Estate, A multi award winning property providing state-of-the-art luxury living with 360-degree views, by Hedger Constructions
Thornton Rural Estate, A multi award winning property providing state-of-the-art luxury living with 360-degree views, by Hedger Constructions

At either end of the open plan central zone are guest and private wings. Within the master wing, bedrooms are inviting, restful sanctuaries. Walk in robes provide ample custom cabinetry, whilst pendant lighting and fine textiles soften the built environment.

Thornton Rural Estate, A multi award winning property providing state-of-the-art luxury living with 360-degree views, by Hedger Constructions
Thornton Rural Estate, A multi award winning property providing state-of-the-art luxury living with 360-degree views, by Hedger Constructions

The ensuite, with floor to ceiling travertine tiles, creates a sense of openness, as do the louvred windows in the shower areas, which provide practical cross ventilation. Twin vanities are placed at adjacent ends of the space, creating a privacy wall for the free-standing bath beyond. The bath area has been positioned to optimise valley views and can be privatised with the flick of a switch via external helioscreens.

Thornton Rural Estate, A multi award winning property providing state-of-the-art luxury living with 360-degree views, by Hedger Constructions
Thornton Rural Estate, A multi award winning property providing state-of-the-art luxury living with 360-degree views, by Hedger Constructions

Outdoor living is equally considered, with a pool house designed for year-round entertaining. Bifold glass doors open the space to the landscape, supported by a full kitchen and expansive alfresco zones.

Thornton Rural Estate, A multi award winning property providing state-of-the-art luxury living with 360-degree views, by Hedger Constructions
Thornton Rural Estate, A multi award winning property providing state-of-the-art luxury living with 360-degree views, by Hedger Constructions

The 20-metre solar-heated pool forms a dramatic focal point, positioned for direct access from key areas of the home.

Thornton Rural Estate, A multi award winning property providing state-of-the-art luxury living with 360-degree views, by Hedger Constructions

Advanced automation via a CBUS system integrates lighting, climate control, security and entertainment, while sustainable design principles—including extensive insulation, double glazing, solar hot water and large-scale water storage—ensure the home performs well beyond expectations.

The result is an exceptional rural estate that balances scale, sophistication and liveability—an enduring example of craftsmanship and considered design within one of regional Victoria’s most sought-after landscapes.

Photographer: Paul West Photography