Clare House Case Study

Overview

Nestled in the hills of Auchenflower, QLD, Clare House is a testament to innovative Brisbane architecture. Designed as a tribute to its previous owner, the home wraps a pre-war Queenslander in a series of sweeping curved terraces, transforming a challenging sloping block into a contemporary sanctuary. The design maximises natural light and panoramic city views, seamlessly blending raw materials with lush greenery. Every element has been carefully considered to complement the unique shape of the site while embracing the north-east outlook and framing the Brisbane skyline.

Process

The original 1946 structure was preserved and elevated, with a new extension constructed beneath. While the existing home lacked the traditional features of a classic Queenslander, the renovation sought to integrate it seamlessly rather than contrast old with new.

The extension introduces pitched roofs and a carefully curated mix of weatherboard, rendered block, and natural stone, creating a cohesive balance between heritage and contemporary design. This thoughtful approach enhances the character of the property while introducing modern materials and functionality.

Approach

The design language of Clare House is defined by its organic curves, a subtle nod to the Monte Carlo and Arrowroot biscuits—an homage to the original owners’ connection to Arnott’s Biscuits. These soft, flowing forms rise from the ground to the roof, creating a distinctive architectural statement that seamlessly integrates the home’s heritage with its modern expansion.

Indoor-outdoor living is enhanced through multiple entry points, including double opposing corner stacking doors that disappear behind natural stone pillars, ensuring a fluid connection to the landscape. Planter boxes and a striking central palm tree further reinforce this integration, blurring the lines between architecture and nature. The use of natural stone and greenery heightens the tropical ambience, reflecting both the local climate and the home's historical roots.

By embracing organic forms and natural materials, the design achieves a harmonious balance between structure and environment. The result is a home that is as architecturally striking as it is comfortable and liveable, embracing modern design principles while remaining deeply connected to its past.

Results

A Perfect Blend

01: Seamless Integration of Old and New

This project exemplifies how a pre-war home can be transformed while still respecting its origins. The careful fusion of heritage architecture with contemporary materials creates a cohesive and timeless design, where the old and new elements work in harmony rather than standing apart.

Taking Cues from History

02: Historically Inspired Modern Design

Influenced by the Arnott’s biscuit legacy, the home’s sweeping curves pay homage to its past while embracing contemporary aesthetics. Rather than recreating traditional design, this approach reinterprets heritage elements in a modern context, resulting in a home that feels deeply rooted in history yet undeniably forward-thinking. The outcome is a unique and memorable living space where the past and present coexist seamlessly.

An Indoor Palm Tree

03: A Statement of Nature Indoors

A striking indoor palm tree anchors the home’s interior, bringing a sense of nature and tranquility into the space. More than just an aesthetic feature, this living element enhances well-being, reinforcing the home’s connection to natural elements. As a focal point, it introduces organic softness to the architecture, offering a dynamic interplay between structure and nature.

Clare House is a remarkable example of how design can transform a challenging site into a luxurious, functional, and historically rich home. The architecture is shaped by the natural characteristics of the site—its sloping terrain, northerly orientation, and dual frontage—with sweeping curved terraces that capture panoramic city views.

The preservation and integration of the original structure adds historical significance, blending the past and present into a harmonious whole. Inspired by the Monte Carlo and Arrowroot biscuits, the home’s curved forms create a cohesive design language, honouring its history while embracing modern living. The result is a visually striking, highly liveable home that remains deeply connected to both its heritage and surroundings.

Check out this property in more detail on the Clare House project page.

Read about it in our ArchDaily feature

Discover how it earned a BIGSEE Architecture Award

Watch its feature on Dream Homes Revealed