Herston Steep Site Queenslander Build-Under and Pod Extension and Renovation (Built 2021)

  1. Owner’s Dream

  2. Our clients had a dream of transforming their classic Queenslander into a contemporary and spacious family haven. They wanted to preserve its cottage charm, seamlessly integrating old and new elements. Additionally, they wished to accommodate their growing family and prioritise security, comfort, and low-maintenance living. To achieve this, they planned on expanding the home to include four bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a double lock-up garage. All while retaining the essence of its historical character.

  3. Site Condition

  4. Nestled on a narrow, steep site, our project faced significant challenges that demanded creative solutions. Additionally, regulations required the house to remain in its original position throughout the renovation to circumvent a Development Application. Our strategy was developed to maximise space and functionality within these constraints. Whilst the site’s topography posed obstacles, it also offered opportunities to utilise the natural slope for pragmatic use.

  5. Architectural Designer Solution

  6. By echoing the detailing of old and new, we integrated the existing structure with contemporary additions, forging cohesive and inviting new living spaces. Our strategy involved minimal alterations to the original house, opting instead to excavate to build underneath and extend into the backyard rather than lifting.

    Creating a secure entryway, setback from the street view ensured privacy and peace of mind. We maximised storage space with a double lock-up garage, utility areas, and ample additional storage for cars and bikes, fulfilling the client’s practical needs without compromising aesthetics.

    The upper level underwent a thoughtful transformation, retaining its position while enhancing functionality. We opened up the back verandah to create a new family room with unobstructed indoor-outdoor flow, revitalizing the living experience. Modernisations to the existing cottage, such as the new contemporary ensuite and walk-in robe created comfort and convenience.

    Beneath the existing house, we crafted a functional level with a new double lock-up garage and utility areas, and a new driveway integrating with the slope. Furthermore, off the rear of the existing house, the addition of a new pod, housing a modern kitchen, living, dining, and outdoor areas, extended the home’s footprint without encroaching on the established setback requirements where avoidable.

  7. HERSTON STEEP RENOVATION BACKYARD

    The block sloped down to the street, as such, we were able to establish the double lock-up garage on the lower level, with utility spaces and a spacious entry. Using the existing floor level of the elevated house, allowed us to retain cut and fill the retaining earth to suit the elevated living spaces of the upper floor. The investment in altering their landscape encouraged an invaluable flow between these living spaces and the levelled backyard.HERSTON STEEP RENOVATION LOWER FLOOR PLANHERSTON STEEP RENOVATION UPPER FLOOR PLAN

    Project partners

  8. Builder

    Norbert Klotz

     

    Certifier

    Integrated Construction Approvals

    www.constructionapprovals.com.au

  9. Engineer

    Kelvin Crofton & Associates CE

Client & Partner Testimonials

PlaceMate 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

I have been working with Jan on small and large projects for over 15 years. These ranged from small extensions to very complex projects, one which was awarded the Master Builders best renovation over 250 k and the quality and workmanship award. Working with Jan has always been a pleasure, and despite whatever difficulties a large renovation throws your way, Jan always displays the ability to work though it, providing the best result and a pleasurable working relationship. Jan’s designs are practical, efficient and work for the needs of the client. I can speak for this as Jan designed my home in Camp Hill.

Stewart Harris Builder

My favourite real estate agent said “Your renovations are fabulous, I still think you have best designed kitchen“ I must say I agree with her. I do love my little place and my beautiful kitchen makes me happy every day.

Jenny Doust Ashgrove

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