Blog

Real House Case Study

Author

Joseph Verrills

First Published

Jul 21, 2024

Last Updated

Oct 29, 2025

Category

Case Studies

A bold renovation in Brisbane reimagines a tired Queenslander into a light-filled Hamptons-inspired home. Real House blends original charm with elegant updates for modern family living.

The facade of Real House renovated in Brisbane Hamptons inspired home by Invilla Architecture
The facade of Real House renovated in Brisbane Hamptons inspired home by Invilla Architecture

Author

Joseph Verrills

Joe is a co-founder of Invilla and your first point of contact when starting a project. With a background in design and a passion for helping clients shape their dream homes, Joe brings clarity and enthusiasm to every conversation. Based in Tasmania and proudly supporting the Brisbane Broncos, he’s as dedicated to great architecture as he is to game day.

Overview

Our client for this renovation project was a young family. They were bold and experienced with challenging renovations and site limitations from a previous project in the same suburb and wanted to turn this into a family home.

The brief was a significant character home renovation that enhanced the pre-war bones of the existing property.

An outdoor entertainment area with a view into the indoor outdoor flow with the kitchen and dining

Process

We did face zoning challenges with space limitations and council approvals. It was previously a dilapidated house with potential that had seen many poorly attempted renovations in the past.

They were keen to retain as many original features of the home as possible, including the Queenslander style but fusing it with a modern Hamptons aesthetic. The original rooms were tiny and could have utilised city views better. Internally there was different ceiling heights and floor levels. Some other challenges we faced included the slope of the site and raising the original house.

The process of designing a home that can work well in the Brisbane climate while being sympathetic to the original dwelling is always a key consideration.

An inbuilt study area with staircase in the background in this home designed by Invilla Architecture

Approach

Clients wanted an open, spacious and natural light-filled home. They wanted it to have a relaxed yet sophisticated feel. Invilla altered the internal layout of the house to maximise the north-north-east aspect to embrace the views.

We were able to maintain part of the original structure of the house. The refurbished house also includes an open-plan living room, dining room and kitchen, which is well-suited for entertaining—coffered ceilings in the kitchen and living area and a high void around the stairs. There are high-quality natural finishes throughout, including timber flooring, wainscoting detailing, double-hung windows, gold fixtures, marble and various custom-designed built-in joinery.

An entertainers kitchen and dining room with gold accents and custom designed built in joinery

We levelled the sizeable alfresco area to be flatter and utilise more space, including a pool and entertaining area. The backyard was subtropical, with the existing shed converted into a pool house.

We expanded the master bedroom upstairs to include its own private deck. This project is an excellent example of how an existing property can be transformed into something extraordinary while retaining its original character and charm.

Our interior design team finished it off with a luxurious and stylish interior/exterior that perfectly suits the needs of our client that the whole family can enjoy.

A dining table and chairs with kitchen in the backgriund with 2 pendants hanging from the coffered ceilings

Results

Sliding Doors

01: Classic Elegance and Expansive Views

Sliding doors have a classic feel and create a sense of space and drama. These doors open onto a large deck and backyard, seamlessly blending indoor and outdoor living areas. The design maximises natural light and offers stunning views of the lush surroundings, enhancing the home's overall ambiance and functionality.

Sliding doors blend the indoor and outdoor areas with a view of the backyard and pool

Master Suite

02: Luxurious Retreat with Elegant Features

This master suite has it all, including a chic window seat and an elegant chandelier. The thoughtful design combines luxury with comfort, providing a serene and sophisticated retreat. Floor-to-ceiling windows flood the space with natural light, while the elegant features add a touch of glamour to this private sanctuary.

A luxurious master suite with window seat and chandelier

Pool House

03: Backyard Oasis with a Dedicated Pool House

A great example of a pool in the backyard, the best part is that it comes with its own pool house. This additional structure provides a convenient and stylish space for guests or family members to relax and enjoy the pool area. The pool house enhances the outdoor living experience, making the backyard a true oasis for entertainment and leisure.

A pool with its own pool house

Conclusion

We love helping our clients take challenging renovations and make something special. We are delighted to see how well this large family home turned out. Check out this property in more detail on the Real House project page.

Check out the Queensland Homes article here.

See how we've transformed other homes - view more case studies.

A large bathroom in Real House renovated by Invilla Architecture

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