Longmeadow Estate
A country homestead on a pristine private beach, we may have found Australia’s most picture perfect hideaway.
The Victorian south west coast is revered for the wild beaches, spectacular waves and imposing cliffs and rock formations. The coastline is blanketed by lush farming country and over 20 years ago, Bruce and Lyn and their children, Kerry, Sophie, Katie and Martin arrived from the tiny New Zealand village of Midhirst, making this part of Victoria home. They purchased a dairy farm in Tyrendarra, a 15-minute drive from the bustling seaside community of Portland, and in 2016 they purchased Longmeadow Estate, ten minutes up the road. Today Martin manages the original dairy farm, and Sophie and Katie manage the family home, Longmeadow Estate.
Longmeadow Estate sits on 10-acres of beautifully landscaped gardens bordered by windswept fields and the rugged coastline of Shipwreck Coast. With its private access track to a secluded beach, you can spend your time whale watching, beachcombing or just enjoying the peace and quiet. When asked how the family came to own Longmeadow, Sophie explains,
“Our Dad, Bruce, was campaigning for three phase power for the region in 2015 when he came across the property for sale. Longmeadow is quite unique and well known in the area so the opportunity to purchase the property was too good to ignore. It felt like it was meant to be. An offer was made, and the rest is history!” Included in the purchase were considerable existing fixtures and furniture with much of the design features in the home reflecting the origins of the previous South African owners. After taking possession, the family converted the office and gym into bedrooms, making Longmeadow a seven-bedroom residence. The family’s goal was to convert the home into a short-term rental but also retain the charm of the original house.
Recently the family updated the colour palate to achieve a lighter, brighter interior with a more modern, coastal feel. The intent was to update the décor to reflect the outside environments and the regions rich maritime history. “We don’t have formal qualifications or experience in design however it has always been something Katie and I have been interested in. I have completed several workshops and short courses and am forever pouring over interior design and decoration publications. I follow design blogs and social media accounts and could spend hours researching all things interiors and design.
“We didn’t want to reinvent the wheel with Longmeadow. It was already a beautiful property, for us we just wanted to make it a more cohesive space and bring the outside environment in.”
More recently Katie and I completed the Hosting Masterclass with Sarah Andrews. It was an incredible course with a lot of focus on the importance of styling and design to really impact a space and create that emotional connection.” Sophie also mentions Steve Cordony, Catherine Heraghty and Belle Bright as design inspirations.
She describes the style of Longmeadow Estate as a modern coastal Australian farmhouse. “We didn’t want to reinvent the wheel with Longmeadow. It was already a beautiful property, for us we just wanted to make it a more cohesive space and bring the outside environment in.” For Sophie the hero of the home is the light filled spaces. “There are so many large windows and French doors which you can open right up. You can see the garden from every room. Also, the close proximity to the beach makes it a really special place.”
Sophie and Katie have introduced texture and curves into the environment. “We love layering and introducing curves and round shapes to help soften a space. Using different textures and fabrics also help to create a warm and inviting feel. I love the large sisal rugs in the formal dining room. Also, the large armchair in the reading room is the perfect spot to curl up with a book and a cuppa.” Sophie goes on to describe linen as their biggest splurge, “We wanted to supply beautiful linen for our guests to help enhance their stay with us. It has made such a difference. The rooms look beautiful and the beds are just so comfortable to sleep in. It’s definitely worth the investment.”
The family have enjoyed many special family occasions at Longmeadow Estate including significant birthdays and Sophie’s wedding. They love to host extended family and friends. But it is the joy of hosting short term rentals that really inspires them. Being able to share their beautiful home and surroundings with others is something Katie and Sophie are passionate about. “When staying at Longmeadow, sleep in! Don’t set an alarm just let the birds wake you. Or, for the early birds, the sunrise is pretty incredible from the master bedroom. Go for a morning stroll along the isolated beach, then start your day with a fresh pot of coffee and some freshly baked sourdough from the Bakehouse in Portland.” The summary of a perfect day for owners and guests alike.
Longmeadow Estate is available for shortterm rentals via Airbnb and HomeAway. It is also available for weddings and photoshoots.
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