Perched high in Auchenflower, this three-level residence celebrates its Queenslander heritage while embracing expansive, modern subtropical living. Designed with a focus on permanence, light, and connection, it stands as a calm, confident expression of place.
This is not simply a new home, but a thoughtful evolution, a project that honours the charm of the original cottage while introducing a calm, contemporary sensibility. Every element, from the precise siting of the pavilion to the softness of the landscape integration, reinforces the idea of permanence and ease.
The home’s material palette is deliberately understated, natural, robust, and enduring. Concrete, timber, and stone are employed with restraint to create a dialogue between permanence and warmth. The architecture privileges passive environmental performance through deep eaves, layered screening, and cross-ventilation, hallmarks of Brisbane’s subtropical design vernacular. These elements ensure the home breathes naturally, minimising reliance on mechanical cooling while promoting sustainable, comfortable living year-round.
A sculptural swimming pool sits beneath the protective canopy of mature Norfolk pines, a serene retreat that captures long views down the hill and back toward the city skyline. The pool terrace, together with its surrounding landscape, has been designed as both an entertainer’s haven and a quiet space of reflection.
The original cottage has been meticulously restored and adapted to form the upper-level master suite, oriented to frame sweeping city and district views. Its elevated position captures the play of light and breeze that defines Brisbane living, while the undercroft, once a modest utility space, has been lifted and reprogrammed to accommodate additional bedrooms and a rumpus room that opens directly to a landscaped courtyard at street level.
To the rear, a striking new pavilion defines the home’s contemporary heart. Housing the kitchen, dining, and living areas, it stands as a restrained concrete form that complements, rather than competes with, the heritage timber structure. Anchored into the natural slope of the site, this grounded, horizontal addition opens dramatically to the garden beyond. Generous glazing and operable panels dissolve the boundaries between indoors and outdoors, allowing living spaces to spill seamlessly onto a terrace and courtyard.Beneath the main living levels, a secure garage and either a wellness room or a self-contained guest suite with separate access add flexibility for visitors, staff, or multi-generational living. A discreet internal lift provides effortless vertical connection between all three levels, ensuring the home is as functional as it is beautiful.
98 Payne Street stands as a statement of refined design and enduring value, a home conceived for those who appreciate craftsmanship, context, and the quiet confidence of architecture done well.
