Our Story
Hill House began with a simple belief. Character homes deserve to be built and restored properly.
We’re James and Courtney Hill, partners in life and in business, based in Toowoomba and deeply connected to the region we call home. What started as a small family venture has grown into a design-led building company known for heritage renovations, considered extensions and custom homes built with longevity in mind.
From the beginning, our goal was never to be the biggest builder in town. It was to build well, take on fewer projects, stay hands-on, and create homes that feel timeless rather than trend-driven.
How It Started
James began his carpentry apprenticeship in Dalby, learning the trade the traditional way, on-site, hands-on, and with a strong respect for doing things properly. He later returned to Toowoomba, where he stepped into leadership roles managing high-end renovations and custom new builds for one of the region’s most respected builders.
Over time, it became clear that the projects he was most drawn to were character homes. Queenslanders, colonials and timber cottages that required patience, structural understanding and careful detailing.
When James obtained his builder’s licence, Hill House was established with a clear standard. Plan thoroughly. Communicate clearly. Build with care.
We began with smaller renovations, refining our systems and building trust with local families. As our experience deepened, so did our niche. Today, we specialise in projects where character matters and quality cannot be rushed.
Who We Are
Hill House is still a family business, and we intend to keep it that way.
We intentionally limit the number of projects we take on each year so we can remain directly involved from planning through to handover. Clients work closely with us. Decisions are resolved early. Documentation is thorough. Communication is clear.
We are not volume builders.
We are structured, considered and personally accountable for every home we build.
James Hill
Director & Builder
James leads every Hill House project from concept to completion. Detail-focused and steady under pressure, he is known for clear communication, strong site management and practical problem-solving, particularly in complex renovations where structure and heritage detailing matter.
With over a decade of experience across renovations, extensions and custom homes, he brings both craftsmanship and discipline to each build. His approach is straightforward: resolve decisions early, build properly, and stand behind the result.
Outside of work, James is happiest outdoors with his family, running, hiking or camping. On site, his focus is unwavering.
Courtney Hill
Co-Director & Brand Strategy
Courtney leads the brand, positioning and client experience strategy behind Hill House. She shapes how the business communicates, how projects are presented and how each client journey is structured from first impression through to handover.
While James leads all direct client and site communication, Courtney works behind the scenes refining systems, strengthening processes and ensuring the standard of care remains consistent across every project. She plays a key role in final presentation, styling and handover, helping each home feel considered and complete.
Outside of work, Courtney is usually in the garden, on a trail with her family or immersed in a creative project that brings order and beauty together.
Our Approach
We believe great homes are built on three foundations.
Quality. Doing things properly, without shortcuts.
Character. Respecting proportion, detail and architectural integrity.
Care. Clear communication and long-term accountability.
By keeping our workload intentionally small, we remain hands-on, responsive and deeply invested in every project we take on.
Many of our clients come to us because they value craftsmanship, heritage sensitivity and a builder who takes responsibility from start to finish.
If that sounds like you, book an initial conversation below.