When dreams meet experience

When it comes to designing and creating the perfect home, Dave and Lorraine Lonsdale could be considered seasoned pros. They’ve built four of them now, and have a pretty good understanding of what’s needed to construct the home of their dreams. That’s why they knew they were on a winner with Geoff Gibson Homes. Having spent many years in South Australia, returning to the area was an exciting homecoming for Lorraine – as she was born in Toowoomba. After choosing their Gowrie Junction property online, the Lonsdales then turned their attention to selecting a team they could trust to build their new pride and joy. They had preliminary discussions with another builder, but it was the quality and details in Lorraine’s sister’s residence that convinced the couple that Geoff Gibson Homes could deliver on all their expectations. “Geoff built my sister’s house and we were very impressed,” Lorraine said.“it was so naturally cool in summer and warm in winter that we wanted to learn more about the energy-efficient processes Geoff applies,” Lorraine said. “After speaking with Rick, our salesman, we knew we had our builder. It felt right.” The Lonsdales had a clear idea of what was needed in their home and worked with the experienced Geoff Gibson team to finalise their vision. “My husband Dave has an engineer’s brain, so he understood structure and the techniques and materials,” Lorraine said. “But, for me – I wanted a bespoke home – so it was all about the aesthetics and Geoff and the team were able to deliver on both counts. “While they offered great advice, we were also able to give so much input from the get go as well. “We’d built other homes off a plan, but this time we could virtually do whatever,” Lorraine revealed. “Some builders can give you all the basics and then extras keep adding on to your final price, but Geoff insists on working from a budget backwards – so there are no surprises or compromises. “They got where I was coming from and we only needed a few minor tweaks.” Lorraine said the insulation, quality windows and doors and the orientation of their home on the block has dramatically cut their energy usage. The Lonsdale home has an energy rating of 7.2 stars, while a standard home will come with approximately a 4.5 rating. “I was not energy focused at all – I was more about the aesthetics, but we have just spent the hottest few weeks of summer in our new home without the need for air-conditioning. People can’t believe how cool it is compared to the outside temperature and we’re now looking forward to how it counters the coming winter months.” Perhaps the most telling testimonial to the quality of the work doesn’t come from the Lonsdale’s but their new neighbours, who are yet to finalise choosing their own builder. “We invited them over and they were so impressed with our home that they’re considering contacting Geoff as well,” Lorraine said.