Queensland
Brisbane
The undercroft of a Queenslander is often the most comfortable place to be in the warmer months of the sub-tropics – a cool
shady space with battened edges to allow breeze to flow and a concrete slab to act as a heat sink.
This renovation celebrates the undercroft. A new living level under a Queenslander contains a series of connected spaces, Upstairs the original house becomes a private retreat, accessed via a timber lined stair that rises into the centre of the old each with their own character and outlook, but unified by the rhythm of the exposed structure above.
Upstairs the original house becomes a private retreat, accessed via a timber lined stair that rises into the centre of the old Queenslander. This space contains bedrooms and private retreat spaces for the family of six.
Bardon Undercroft House cleverly repositions an existing cottage, optimising aspect and unlocking a northerly vista across a significant adjacent landscape.
The architect’s careful calibration of the plan and section has enabled a generous dialogue with the street while maintaining comfort between private and public domains. Handling of the undercroft-like built form celebrates the character of the original dwelling while implementing a significant new program.
This project presents a notable precedent for the renovation of traditional Queensland housing.
Our brief was for a relaxed and light filled family home. We wanted it to connect to the garden and not be precious – a house is to be lived in!
We love that we can open all the doors and the breezes flood through the house, it is like living in the garden with the sounds of birds constantly around us. Family life centres around the kitchen and the entire house is used with lots of places to sit, chat and read. Such a comfortable place to live.
The Australian Institute of Architects acknowledges First Nations peoples as the Traditional Custodians of the lands, waters, and skies of the continent now called Australia.
We express our gratitude to their Elders and Knowledge Holders whose wisdom, actions and knowledge have kept culture alive.
We recognise First Nations peoples as the first architects and builders. We appreciate their continuing work on Country from pre-invasion times to contemporary First Nations architects, and respect their rights to continue to care for Country.
