Mt Gravatt New Build Multi-Generational Family Home (Built 2022)

Owner’s Dream

The clients dreamt of building a duplex that combined comfort, functionality, and versatility. They wanted to create a multi-generational 5-bedroom home that could transform over time into 2 separate units when desired. For this, each unit would need all the amenities one could desire, including garages, storage spaces, and private yards. Additionally, the clients wanted a design that would blend seamlessly into the neighbourhood, eschewing ostentation for understated elegance.

 

Site Condition

The site presented both opportunities and challenges. Situated in a vibrant neighbourhood, privacy from the street was paramount. Additionally, practical considerations regarding the sewer and the need for fire separation between the units had to be planned. On a site of under 500 sqm, achieving generous ceiling heights was essential to ensure spacious and comfortable living environments. The site’s orientation was crucial, with North to the side, the internal layout had to respond to natural lighting and ventilation.

 

Architectural Designer Solution

To address the clients’ vision and site conditions, we crafted a large, two-story home clad in weatherboards and natural stone. Our solution blended contemporary design with timeless appeal, harmonizing with the surrounding streetscape while offering a modern aesthetic. We utilised every space efficiently, ensuring the residence boasted several spacious living areas, well-appointed bedrooms, and ample storage.

 

By incorporating distinct entrances on either side of the home and specific fire-rated separations, we provided the flexibility for the duplex to function as a cohesive home or two separate units. Additionally, we strategically positioned indoor and outdoor spaces to facilitate connection or privacy as desired, promoting a versatile sense of harmony.

MT GRAVATT NEW BUILD DUPLEX NORTHERN ENTRY PORCH FRONT DOOR

MT GRAVATT NEW BUILD DUPLEX SOUTHERN ENTRY PORCH FRONT DOORFrom the driveway parking to the sunny alfrescos, every detail was meticulously considered. With little remaining site, the clients’ decision to invest in their landscaping allowed them to enjoy every inch of the surrounding property from the comfort of their living spaces.

MT GRAVATT NEW BUILD DUPLEX LOWER FLOOR PLAN MT GRAVATT NEW BUILD DUPLEX UPPER FLOOR PLAN

 

Project partners

Builder

Stewart Harris Constructions

Certifier

Integrated Construction Approvals

https://www.constructionapprovals.com.au/

Engineer

Kelvin Crofton & Associates CE

 

  2. Staging

    Tracey McLeod

    https://www.showhomes.au/

  4. Landscaping

  6. Photographer

  7. Caco Photography

  8. https://www.caco.net.au/

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Client & Partner Testimonials

We engaged Jan and her team at Placemate for our small block renovation in West End, Brisbane. Fantastic result, Jan’s creative genius solved tricky problems related to BCC restrictions and what we were aiming to achieve. Renovation is now finished (Yay!) and throughout the process they were extremely helpful (thanks Amy!), again, jumping in to solve unforeseen technical issues. Everyone who visits always comment on what a clever use of space, thanks Placemate!

Jason Hawkins and Diana Tolmie Owners

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

Jan Hogarth has the wonderful ability to listen and focus on the client’s brief enabling her to present a creative design, making certain to have incorporated the client’s requirements. Good communication is the essence of completing great projects. We feel that Jan’s communication with all parties involved in a project is exceptional; – subcontractors, engineers, the principal contractor, and clients.

Jan always presents herself professionally and deals with any situation calmly and promptly. My company has always enjoyed working on a great number of projects in which we have been jointly involved, several of which have been Award Winning Designs.

Tom Ryan (retired builder) Retired Builder

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