Our Story
We didn’t plan to start a building company with a toddler on our hip and another baby on the way — but that’s exactly how Hill House began.
We’re James and Courtney Hill — partners in life, in work, and in building homes that feel as good as they look. For us, Hill House was never just about construction; it was about creating a life. One where we could stay close to our roots in Toowoomba, raise our family with more freedom, and craft homes with soul for people who value quality, character, and care.
James began his carpentry apprenticeship in Dalby, learning the trade the traditional way — hands-on, on-site, and with a deep respect for craftsmanship. Later, he returned to Toowoomba to complete his training, stepping into leadership roles and managing high-end heritage renovations and custom new builds for one of the region’s most respected builders.
As his skills and confidence grew, so did our vision. While raising our first child, James studied for his builder’s licence — often late at night or in the early hours of the morning — driven by the goal of building something of his own. It wasn’t just about career progression; it was about creating a business that gave our growing family balance, purpose, and a deeper connection to the community we love.
Our Beginnings
Hill House began with the small projects — bathroom makeovers, maintenance jobs, and modest renovations — giving us the foundation to refine our craft and build lasting relationships with our clients.
As word spread, our reputation grew. We became known for restoring Queenslanders and character homes with precision, personality, and care — the kind of projects where every detail matters and every decision shows respect for the home’s history.
Today, that same commitment to craftsmanship, connection, and care runs through every project we take on — whether it’s a high-end renovation or a one-of-a-kind custom new build designed to feel timeless from day one.
Who We Are
Hill House is more than a building company — it’s the way we work, the way we treat people, and the care we bring to every project. We believe great homes are built on craftsmanship, transparency, and genuine connection — from the first conversation to handover and well beyond.
James Hill
Director & Builder
James is the steady hand guiding every Hill House project from concept to completion. Organised, detail-focused, and a clear communicator, he keeps projects running smoothly and clients feeling confident every step of the way. He thrives on problem-solving — especially when navigating the more complex parts of a build — and finds genuine satisfaction in watching a space transform from start to finish.
With over a decade of experience, James leads with transparency, reliability, and genuine care for the people he works with. Whether it’s clients, trades, or suppliers, he believes in doing things properly and building relationships that last.
Outside of work, you’ll find James running, hiking, camping, or playing with his kids — and occasionally painting intricate Warhammer figurines, a creative outlet that helps him switch off. Above all, he’s a grounded, good-hearted human who goes above and beyond to deliver the best outcome for every client.
Courtney Hill
Co-Director & Client Experience
Courtney is a people person through and through — warm, approachable, and genuinely interested in the stories behind every home. She’s the one who remembers the little details about your family, your project, and probably your coffee order. With a background in hairdressing and makeup artistry, she brings creativity, communication skills, and a strong eye for detail to everything she does.
While James leads the day-to-day on site, Courtney focuses on client experience, marketing, and brand storytelling — ensuring every client feels supported at each stage of the journey. From clear communication and thoughtful styling for photography, to celebrating handover day, she’s passionate about creating a seamless, memorable experience that lasts well beyond the build.
Outside of work, you’ll find Courtney gardening, running, hiking, or camping with her family — always happiest outdoors or immersed in a creative project that brings beauty and purpose together.
Our Approach
We believe great building is about more than craftsmanship — it’s about trust, respect, and shared vision.
By keeping our workload intentionally small, we stay hands-on with every project, maintain clear communication, and uphold the standards we’re known for.
Every decision we make is guided by three principles:
Quality — doing things properly, without shortcuts.
Character — creating homes that feel authentic, timeless, and true to their story.
Care — treating every project and every person with respect.
It’s a simple approach, but it’s one that works — and it’s why so many of our clients stay connected long after handover.
If you’re looking for a builder who values craftsmanship, communication, and character, we’d love to hear from you.