Kalinga Queenslander Transformation

Brisbane CharacterHome Renovation | Traditional CharacterOverlay | Multi-Generational Living

This sensitive renovation of a traditional Queenslander in Kalinga, inner-Brisbane, demonstrates how character architecture can be thoughtfully adapted to meet contemporary needs while respecting Brisbane's heritage housing legacy.

The Challenge

Working within a compact site under Brisbane's Traditional Character Overlay presented unique design constraints. Our first step was establishing the home's original construction date, a critical requirement for pre-1947 character homes in Brisbane—and engaging with a town planner early in the design process. This proactive approach ensured we navigated Traditional Character requirements while achieving our clients' vision for accessible, age-friendly living.

The existing lower floor, though filled with potential, didn't meet legal habitable ceiling heights. Rather than compromise the dwelling's heritage value, we developed a solution to raise the entire original Queenslander, preserving its Traditional Character fabric while creating functional living space below.

The Design Response

The new ground floor has been carefully designed as an age-friendly, accessible living suite—allowing the owners to comfortably age in place at entry level.This self-contained space features open-plan living, dining and kitchen areas, a generous bedroom, bathroom, and laundry, all while maintaining seamless connection to outdoor spaces and landscaped areas. The design incorporates universal accessibility principles, ensuring the home adapts to the owners'evolving needs.

Above,the original Queenslander has been reconfigured to accommodate revised internal circulation and the flexibility of additional bedrooms and bathrooms, supporting multi-generational living. A new two-car carport along Frances Avenue provides essential parking without overwhelming the home's traditional street presence—a key consideration in Kalinga's character streetscape.

The result honours the suburb's Traditional Character building tradition while delivering a thoughtfully planned, future-focused home that serves this family for decades to come. The project exemplifies how Brisbane's heritage Queenslanders can be sensitively raised and extended to meet modern lifestyle requirements without compromising their architectural integrity.