Queenslander Renovations Brisbane
As architects, Queenslander Renovations Brisbane are PlaceMate Architect’s bread and butter. These were originally built from 1900 to World War Two. They are found all over Brisbane. Queenslanders are defined by the Brisbane City Council as a “Character House“ in a “Demolition Control Precinct”.
As many homeowners know, renovating Queenslanders can be a tough job. With the help of our experienced team, you can create an inspiring space. In addition, we design from the ground up to open up and enlarge the home. By installing a dedicated master wing you have more privacy for bathing and relaxing. Once we have enlarged and relocated tiny kitchens, you will enjoy more central family rooms. By integrating porches with outdoor living areas we are designing safe external access and freedom of movement.
Renovating Queenslander Homes
Understandably, most Queenslanders start life above the ground. It’s because these homes are raised on stumps. Additionally, they have tin roofs and front verandahs. You’ll notice their style is also distinctive. It features timber floors, weatherboard walls, and timber-framed windows.
These charming original Queenslanders aren’t made for indoor-outdoor living. As modern families, we find the decks are often narrow, hot, and heavy. Originally, they were disconnected from the garden and cut off the views. Likewise, central rooms are dark. And the separate kitchen is usually found out the back. Desirable modern amenities like parking, storage, and insulation were never part of the original design.
Many Queenslanders are built-in underneath over time. This means they can be enlarged and extended. Like you, we have seen the good, the bad, and the ugly. A modern-day renovation can also mean plumbing and electrical upgrades. These are not DIY jobs for the homeowner.
Newmarket Queenslander Renovation
Queenslander Renovations Architects
Designing a Queenslander Renovation
Most owners know a modern renovation is a job for an architect who understands Queenslanders. Likewise, PlaceMate Architects expertise lies in helping you bring out the best in your renovation, design, and build.
Brisbane’s heritage housing styles come in all sizes and styles. The iconic Queenslander included. They started as basic workers’ cottages in inner suburbs such as Paddington. Then they graduated to elaborate Californian bungalows in Ashgrove. Some branched out as large homes with Art Deco plaster ceilings in Newmarket and Sherwood.
Architectural Renovations
As the proud owner of a Queenslander, you’re the custodian of an increasingly rare commodity. These distinctive homes were likely built more than 100 years ago. Of course, if they were furniture they’d be antiques. Did you know that if they were cars, they’d be classics? It’s important to make sure you’ve got it right with your piece of history when renovating. Your renovation will be examined by the council and your neighbours.
At PlaceMate Architects, we’ve lifted Queenslanders up and built-in underneath. In the process, we’ve shifted living areas down to the ground floor. The result was to open up some verandahs and enclose others. Our plans have also repaired the original house. In many, we’ve kept the roof shape intact. Sometimes we add a new two-storey section out the back. At times, our work has restored rooms to their original form. For others, we’ve gutted tired interiors. Then turned them into modern spaces. We also respect period features while adding contemporary style.
PlaceMate Architects Guiding Principle
Our guiding principle is to create lasting value for our clients. That’s why we fit the home to the owner – not the other way round. Plus, we’re wary of fashion statements that will date as quickly as the 1950s and 1970s extensions we demolish.
We also understand the layers of town planning and construction. PlaceMate Architects carefully follow the steps. Then your design won’t trigger a Development Application (DA) from the Brisbane City Council. Like you, we like to keep our builds and renovations stress-free. Once you get clear on what you want, we’ll then tell you how our Queenslander renovations architects can make it happen.
Our team has tackled many Queenslander renovations. With experience, we enjoy a reputation for transforming original Queenslanders into beautiful, modern homes. As a result, our projects are acclaimed by the inner-city communities that we serve. They also meet the expectations of local families living in real homes.
Renovating a Queenslander can be a daunting prospect. You may want to add a new storey or create an indoor-outdoor living space. Are you sure you want to take the step? Then we recommend you speak with PlaceMate Architects about the changes you’d like to make. Together we’ll develop your design style and budget. Once completed, you’ll have the plans you need to build your dream home.
Mitchelton Exterior Queenslander Renovation
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is a Queenslander home?
A Queenslander is a traditional style of home built in Brisbane and throughout Queensland between the early 1900s and World War II. These houses are typically timber-framed, elevated on stumps, and feature wide verandahs, tin roofs, and decorative timberwork. They’re considered heritage homes and are often located in “Demolition Control Precincts” under Brisbane City Council regulations.
2. Why do Queenslander homes need special renovation considerations?
Queenslanders have unique structural characteristics and heritage value. Their elevated designs, aged materials, and lack of modern amenities mean renovations often involve structural adjustments, careful planning, and council approvals. Renovating without the right expertise may compromise the home’s integrity or character.
3. Can you build under a Queenslander home?
Yes. Many Queenslander homes have space underneath that can be legally enclosed or built in. This is a common approach for creating more living space, adding bedrooms, or including amenities like garages and storage. At PlaceMate Architects, we specialise in designing these extensions while retaining the home’s original charm.
4. Do I need council approval to renovate a Queenslander?
Often, yes. Because Queenslanders are typically classified as “Character Homes,” significant changes may require council review. Our team is well-versed in Brisbane City Council regulations and will guide you through the process to ensure your renovation meets all planning and heritage requirements.
5. How do you modernise a Queenslander while keeping its charm?
We aim to strike the perfect balance between respecting the heritage elements—like VJ walls, high ceilings, and ornate features—while upgrading kitchens, bathrooms, layouts, and access to outdoor living. We often open up cramped interiors, add modern extensions at the rear, and enhance natural light to create bright, functional family homes.
6. How much does it cost to renovate a Queenslander in Brisbane?
Costs vary depending on the size of the home, the scope of renovation, and any structural changes involved. As a rough guide, a well-executed Queenslander renovation may start around $300,000 for basic work and exceed $600,000 for full-scale transformations. We provide tailored designs and realistic budget guidance based on your goals and priorities.
7. Can I retain original features like timber floors and casement windows?
Absolutely. Wherever possible, we preserve and restore original elements. This includes timber flooring, decorative balustrades, and period-style windows. If replacements are necessary, we use materials and styles that match the existing character of the home to maintain authenticity.
8. What common design challenges do you solve in Queenslander renovations?
We address issues like dark central rooms, disconnected kitchens, limited storage, and poor flow between indoor and outdoor areas. We often create open-plan living, better natural light, expanded decks, and improved access to the backyard. Modern parking solutions and energy efficiency upgrades are also common.
9. How long does a Queenslander renovation typically take?
From concept design to completion, most Queenslander renovations take between 6 to 12 months. The timeline depends on the complexity of the build, council approval timeframes, and site conditions. We work closely with clients to ensure realistic scheduling and minimal disruption.
10. Why choose PlaceMate Architects for my Queenslander renovation?
We specialise in Queenslander renovations and understand their history, structure, and style. With years of experience and a strong track record in Brisbane, we tailor each design to the homeowner’s lifestyle, vision, and budget—while ensuring compliance and preserving the home’s character. Our process is collaborative, transparent, and designed to reduce renovation stress.
