Sanctuary by the Sea – Zoarii Ventnor House Features in Coast Magazine
Ventnor
Living.
Article by: Coast Magazine words by Aissa Reed
Set on 3.5 acres of Philip Island coastline where wallabies graze in the golden light and ocean views stretch uninterrupted, Zoarii rises as more than just a luxury home. It’s a modern sanctuary and retreat, designed to restore, inspire and connect. This unique property blends boutique hotel sensibilities with a deep respect for the natural landscape. View the Ventnor House here.
A Creative Force Behind Zoarii
The creative force behind Zoarii is multi-brand entrepreneur Matt Newman, a man with a passion for design. “I’ve been lucky enough to stay in some incredible hotels and Airbnb’s over the years, ” he says.
“When it came to building this home, I knew I wanted it to feel like a luxury hotel, but one that’s truly connected to its surroundings.” Collaborating closely with Arkular architects, he rejected the traditional layout of aligning bedrooms at one end of the building and instead designed a home that prioritises privacy and balance.
The master suite, ensuite and stunning outdoor bath are set on one side of the central living space, while two bedrooms and a bathroom sit on the other. “It’s perfect for two couples, ” he says.
“You can come together in the middle, then retreat to your own private haven. ” At the heart of the home is a striking sculptural fireplace, handmade by a French artisan and suspended from the ceiling. “I wanted something that felt like art – a central piece that would spark conversation, ” he explains. “Because it’s suspended, it doesn’t block the view – it actually invites you to look beyond. ” And that view is unforgettable.
The name Zoarii is layered with meaning. Zoarii means sanctuary or place of refuge, while I (in roman numerals) represents a second home.
“Phillip Island has always been my second home. I holidayed here as a kid – my parents had a house at Silver leaves. I opened my first clothing store here 15 years ago. It’s always drawn me back. ” Zoarii is designed for deep rest and quiet inspiration.
Beyond the minimalist interiors and high-end finishes, guests can immerse themselves in the wellness facilities: a personal gym, a sauna, an ice plunge bath and a dedicated yoga deck that faces the ocean.
One bedroom even features an outdoor bath with ocean views. “You walk straight from the sauna to the yoga deck and are embraced by the ocean breeze – it’s a full sensory reset,” he says. “I’ve had painters and writers stay here: it’s that kind of place. A creative, luxury retreat. It’s a place of rest – definitely not a party house.”
Zoarii also offers seamless indoor-outdoor living, with sliding doors that open on both the north and south sides, inviting in light, air and nature.
“On a good day, you can open everything up and feel like you’re completely outside, ” he says. Sustainability was a key priority in the build. The home is close to off grid and was carefully designed to be environmentally sensitive to the landscape. “Land like this, backing directly onto coastal reserve, is incredibly rare, ” he notes. “When I found it, just before Covid, I knew I had to build something special here.”
Located along the iconic Pyramid Rock walking trail, with views stretching toward Tasmania, Zoarii offers an unprecedented sense of space and stillness.
“We’ve even had marriage proposals here, ” he says, smiling. “There’s a lookout over Seal Rocks that I send people to. It’s magic. ” From its handmade fireplace to its panoramic views and wellness focus, Zoarii is a home that invites you to slow down, breathe deeply, and reconnect with nature, with creativity and with yourself.
The Beauty of Collaboration
We loved being part of bringing this beautiful space to life. The collaborative spirit really shines through in this modern coastal dream home, and it’s proof that when the right people come together, great things happen. The end result is a home that’s not only stunning to look at, but thoughtfully designed to live in.
Collaborative Details
Photography – Charlotte Jane Studio
Architect – Arkular
Interior Design – George Marks Design
Builder – Teekay Constructions
Book Your Stay – Zoarii
