Steep Herston Renovation Build-Under & Pod

Owner’s Dream

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.

Site Condition

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.

Architectural Designer Solution

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.

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.

Project partners

Builder

Norbert Klotz

Certifier

Integrated Construction Approvals

www.constructionapprovals.com.au

Engineer

Kelvin Crofton & Associates CE