Gold Coast Modern Beachside New Build Duplex

Gold Coast Modern Beachside New Build Duplex (Built 2023)

Owner’s Dream

The vision: transform a small block of land, within a 10-minute walk of the beach, into two elegant townhouses. The objective was to meticulously design for modern living and to retain value. Furthermore, focusing on maximising space, light, and comfort was essential. The client sought a sanctuary where sophisticated design meets practicality, with each unit embodying a timeless appeal.

Site Condition

We faced challenges due to the site’s condition – a compact plot with under 15m of frontage and regulations that bound us. As a result, we had to innovate within constraints, leveraging every inch of available space to its fullest potential. Additionally, the site was situated below flight paths, which had to be satisfied for approvals and user comfort. We incorporated sound-insulating features while prioritising privacy, security, and seamless integration with the surrounding private spaces and open skies.

Architectural Designer Solution

Drawing inspiration from the client’s brief and the site’s context, our architectural solution marries form and function. We merged contemporary design elements with timeless charm, ensuring each townhouse feels like a cohesive whole. Leveraging strategic spatial planning and visual flow, we crafted interiors that borrowed space from beyond their footprint, creating a sense of expansiveness and connection with the outdoors.

Despite the narrow lot, we detail-designed built-ins that allowed the spaces to be functional, while still being compact. Collaborating with a trusted builder, we brought the vision to life, ensuring quality craftsmanship and attention to detail at every turn. From the inviting upper floor, boasting spacious alfresco and living areas, to the practicality of the ground floor with its secure carport and storage provisions, each aspect of the design speaks to the client’s desires for comfort, convenience, security, and class. With unique finishes throughout each unit, future owners are assured of refinement and individuality.

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Client & Partner Testimonials

We knew we only had one chance to get the look and the acoustics right and the room also needed to work if we ever sold the home.PlaceMate took into account not just the acoustics, but also the aesthetics of the room. We are delighted with their work

Greg & Trish Elgar Brisbane

Jan, you did a fantastic job translating our unformed ideas into a classy home, fulfilling all our requirements. We are most impressed that you were able to design such a unique and spacious home on a small block and yet one that blends in with the ambience of the suburb without being ostentatious. Your choice of building materials was inspired and the design incorporating the high ceiling in the living/dining/kitchen area impresses everyone who sees it. We also appreciated your no-nonsense, straightforward, approach to the whole project. Congratulations on a great job

Lola & Ian Binch Owners

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.

Stephen and Lynne Day New

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

Our Client Success Team

Placemate Architects works with successful and innovative clients. Together we achieve significant and lasting transformations of cities, houses and landscapes.