Brisbane Renovation Architecture Ashgrove (Built 2022)
Ashgrove Queenslander Family Home Renovation
Owners Dream
In the heart of Ashgrove, this Queenslander’s owners loved their location but needed additional space. The family wanted to maintain the traditional art-deco characteristics of the home and Ashgrovian charm. Additionally, they sought to take full advantage of the potential views achieved from a higher vantage point. Accordingly, they enlisted our expertise to expand the dwelling, improve functionality and make the most of the jewel of their site.
Site Condition
The original high-set house sat on a difficult-shaped corner block. Additionally, the sloping terrain, and existing pool, occupied the remaining space. Recognising this, we opted to pursue a vertical integration strategy. In doing so, it was essential to focus on the design’s compliance with the council’s height and level regulations. Working closely with town planners, we navigated the Development Application process seamlessly.
Architectural Designer Solution
Our renovation plan focussed on a vertical integration strategy, expanding the available space without increasing the footprint. This involved excavating beneath the existing house and building a new primary suite pod above the roof to create additional space. The new upper pod was designed to take in the sweeping views of the forestry beyond. Adding two more floors required meticulous execution. Therefore, we used a detailed functional stair design to flow between the new floors and comply with council regulations.
Throughout the renovation, preserving the essence of the original Queenslander art-deco style remained a priority. Resultingly, we produced a spacious family home that harmonises beautifully with its heritage surroundings.
Project partners
Builder
Bruin Builders
Certifier
Integrated Construction Approvals
www.constructionapprovals.com.au
Town Planners
Steffan Harries
Engineer
Walker Engineering
Photographer
Hannah Puechmarin
Client & Partner Testimonials
Our experience with Placemate Architects was outstanding. They did three
things we appreciated, and nothing we didn’t.
They focused on understanding our needs and what we wanted.
They, Jan specifically, consistently generated creative design options to
assist in the extraordinary number of decisions that need to be made from
the very big to the very small.
And they matched us with exactly the right builder, the excellent Harris
Constructions.
Our decision to work with Placemate Architects meant we got what we wanted,
on time and on budget.
For an architect, Jan’s not an idiot.
Dave Maguire BuilderPlaceMate Architects made my house into a home – my home. It’s the little things about this space that make it mine. From the display cabinet in main entrance to the pink hatch I requested in the bathroom, this space has been transformed to suit my needs. The team came up with suggestions that they presented in a way that was easy to visualise. The process was quick, the communication was clear, and their imagination was invaluable.
Alaska Montford Owner
Best use of a steep site
PlaceMate topped the state for best use of a sloping site over $250000 at the Queensland Master Builders Association Housing & Construction Awards. The award was for the design of two contemporary townhouses built on a 500sqm site that dropped 10m from a busy road. All the bedrooms and living areas captured picturesque city views.
Best renovation $250-$500,000
PlaceMate took home the prize at the Queensland Master Builders Association Housing & Construction Awards for the best renovation between $250,000 – $500,000. The winning renovation was a 1910 cast concrete Californian bungalow-style home in Indooroopilly. The design added a new wing and unified alterations undertaken in 50s, 70s and 80s.
Recognised in The Courier-Mail
PlaceMate’s skills were recognised in The Courier-Mail for our transformation of a Shorncliffe residence originally built around 1910.
Registered with Board of Architects Queensland
Registration Number 2457
