WOW! SEE INSIDE AN INCREDIBLE INNER-CITY SANCTUARY
“Thanks to the Three Birds for giving me the confidence to just do it!”
Are you dreaming of the perfect home to fit your lifestyle, but feel overwhelmed and lack the confidence to take the first step towards renovating? Clare Hurrell did, and that’s why she joined Three Birds Reno School. For the knowledge and support that would ultimately lead her to “just do it”.
In 2019, Clare bought an old house in the inner-city Brisbane suburb of New Farm, within walking distance of trendy James Street, with a complete renovation in mind. The old Queenslander was in need of some love but had great bones and ticked all of Clare’s boxes:
✔️ right location, close to family
✔️ flat block
✔️ able to be lifted to increase the size
A FAMILY AFFAIR
With grand plans in mind, Clare teamed up with her brother, Frank, and a crew of tradies to totally transform the old home. After designing the initial plans herself, Clare handed them over to a draftsman to draw up and submit to Council for approval.
Together they transformed the 3-bedroom house into a 3-storey, 5-bedroom home with an integrated apartment and rooftop area overlooking Brisbane City. There are open-plan living spaces, multiple entertainment areas, a pool and cabana and plenty of room for the kids to run around.
Here’s what the home looked like before the siblings worked their magic…
AN INNER-CITY SANCTUARY
Clare’s vision was a combo of coastal, Mediterranean and Balinese vibes - white walls, natural stone features and beautiful accents like handmade Moroccan tiles and Venetian plaster to add texture and charm. She wanted the home to feel “calm and peaceful with a bit of a resort tropical feel like you are on holiday but in the middle of the city. We named it ‘The Villa’ - like you’re living in a holiday villa.”
In the kitchen, Clare opted to forgo overhead cabinetry which, along with the large island bench and stunning custom arches, makes it feel more like a swanky hotel bar than a residential kitchen. The mirrors inside the arches give a lovely reflection of the fireplace on the other side of the room.
Clare also used mirrors in the bathrooms and dining room to make the spaces feel bigger and to reflect the lush garden and poolside cabana outside.
Natural light was a priority for Clare, and the overhead glass panels in both kitchen areas work wonders for the light to stream in during the day and they also provide a great view of the stars at night… and raindrops on a wet day.
Besides the kitchen, Clare’s favourite space in the house is the rooftop area. It’s from here that you really appreciate the close proximity to the bright lights of Brisvegas, while having total privacy in a holiday-like sanctuary. Nighttime is extra special up here and even more so when there are fireworks displays over the river. #frontrowseats
Clare’s passion for sourcing special materials is evident throughout the house and the striking carved wooden door is one of the pieces she sourced to make a statement as you enter the property. “I think it sets the stage for the feeling you get when you enter the house… relaxed.”
TOP TIPS FROM RENO SCHOOL
We asked Clare how Three Birds Reno School helped her in transforming this home:
The info and checklist on DA council approvals was really helpful for us.
Bathroom layouts - the recommendation of the bath up against a window. Also, ensuring that the toilet not visible when you enter the room - hadn’t thought about that!
Painting the roof of the house (I swear by this one!) It makes a huge difference to the overall street appeal of the house and is relatively cheap in comparison to other renovation costs.
Putting in a doggy bath - I would never have thought of that! My trades thought I was crazy but it looks great and is so functional, we use it all the time for the dog.
WHERE CAN WE FOLLOW YOU?
Three Birds Reno School is Australia’s favourite renovation course. It’s the ultimate online course for anyone thinking of renovating or building their dream home.
Doors are closed at the moment, but you can join our waitlist.
