Owners Dream
An easy care, four-bedroom beach house for both family and rental, with minimal site impact and an economical construction.
Site Condition
This long, skinny block was set back from the main road, within walking distance of the beach. Large trees grew at the front and there was a clearing at the rear, with the opportunity for north-facing ocean glimpses from an upper level. It was likely that two-storey neighbours would surround the property in the future.
Design Solution
Using compact planning, a simple structure and off-the-shelf detailing, PlaceMate’s floor plan included a ground-level beach zone for cars and gear, coupled with a north-facing outdoor living area on the upper deck. To create interest and privacy half levels of stair landings were used. Colour successfully blended the beach house with the surrounding leafy site.
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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
Builders build, tradies trade, but the architect has the vision and ideas. Thanks Jan for your wonderful suggestions.
Stephen Stone Owner
Jan has a great eye for detail. Her plans are very comprehensive and she thoughtfully considers every aspect of how her clients will live within the space she designs for them. She specialises in period homes and homes with character.
Manley Homes Manley Homes

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.