Ormond Street Renovation Case Study

Overview

Living in Ascot is a dream for many Queenslanders. Known for its heritage homes, tree lined streets, and elevated outlooks, the suburb exudes enduring charm. When the new owners of 6 Ormond Street, Ascot QLD 4007, approached Invilla to design their forever home, we were excited to be involved - and immediately saw the potential of the existing house. Located just a short stroll from Ascot State School, the home is ideally positioned for family life in one of Brisbane’s most desirable neighbourhoods.

With deep experience in character home renovations, our team understood how to bring the client’s vision to life. They had a detailed design brief and a clear list of living requirements, and they felt confident that Invilla could deliver on every aspect.

With young children and demanding work lives, the owners wanted to avoid the stress of managing the project themselves. They placed their trust in us to oversee the entire process - from concept to completion.

The Process

When we first arrivevisited 6 Ormond Street, Ascot QLD 4007 in July 2018, we were welcomed by the previous owner, the new homeowners, their builder, and the real estate agent. From the very beginning, it was a collaborative effort, with everyone aligned on the goal of completing the transformation by mid-2020.

The property was a pre-war Queenslander — typical of the house in Ascot style — painted pale blue, with baby blue balustrades, gutters, and trim. Over time, it had passed through several owners and undergone a series of small renovations. The result was a home with mismatched proportions and disconnected spaces.

The lower level was used primarily for open storage and car parking, with some areas partially enclosed in concrete blocks, and others still exposed to the elements. Access to the backyard was limited to a narrow undercroft passage, making the home feel disjointed and underutilised.

Our clients approached us with a clear vision for their forever home. They wanted large, open-plan living areas at the centre of the house, plenty of natural light, and thoughtful inclusions to support their lifestyle. Their brief included a striking wine cellar as a visual centrepiece, generous wardrobe space for shoes and jewellery, and seamless indoor–outdoor flow to the lawn and pool.

The design involved lifting the existing home and building in underneath to create a new, level ground floor. This allowed the kitchen, living, and alfresco zones to open directly onto the backyard, connecting effortlessly to the pool and garden. Throughout the design process, we focused on retaining and enhancing the original character of the home — ensuring that every new element complemented the heritage feel while adding modern comfort and functionality.

The Approach

All our design approaches begin the same way. After meeting with the clients, we began sketching concepts by hand- exploring different options for access, levels, orientation, and how best to work with the existing structure.

Once we found a direction that felt right, we moved the design into 3D modelling software for further development. This allowed our clients to explore the proposed design in real time and offer feedback along the way.

This stage is where client input becomes invaluable, allowing them to explore the 3D model in depth and provide detailed feedback in real time. These conversations allowed us to explain the reasoning behind our decisions and continue refining the home to suit their lifestyle.

While the core layout remained true to the original sketches, several key changes were made during this phase. These included relocating the staircase, enlarging the double-height void, and reconfiguring the master suite to allow for a larger bedroom, ensuite, and walk-in robe.

Once plans were certified, engineering completed, and interior selections finalised, the builder priced the project and moved into construction. Even during the build, small design evolutions continued. The client requested a larger void, and the stair layout was adjusted again to suit. More detailing was also introduced throughout the interiors - including pressed metal ceilings and extensive wainscoting - to bring additional texture and character to the home.

Some of the most personal touches came through the lighting. With one of the homeowners being a qualified electrician, the selection of light fittings became a hands-on process. The central chandelier - the crowning feature of the home - required scaffolding and hours of careful installation. It's a statement piece that reflects both technical skill and personal pride.

Results

Large Open Spaces for Family Living

01: Light-Filled, Dual-Level Living

The home’s dual-level design is anchored by a striking double-height void, drawing natural light deep into the interior. These generous volumes create a strong sense of openness and connection, helping each living space feel both expansive and comfortable. Carefully positioned windows and openings invite light to move through the home throughout the day — softening surfaces, revealing texture, and enriching the daily experience of every room.

Tailored Wardrobes

02: Smart Storage Designed for Clarity, Ease, and Everyday Living

This custom-designed wardrobe was tailored to suit the individual needs of each partner. Generous built-in spaces provide dedicated storage for clothing, shoes, and jewellery — with a strong focus on clarity, organisation, and ease. More than just functional, the design reflects a philosophy that elevates the everyday. From thoughtful compartments to refined finishes, every detail contributes to a sense of calm — making daily routines feel smoother, simpler, and more enjoyable.

Wine Cellar

03: Sculptural Storage, Carved from an Unexpected Space

Tucked beneath the stairwell — a space often overlooked — a custom wine cellar was created and framed with striking clear glass. This thoughtful design move transforms a practical solution into a memorable feature. The glass enclosure not only showcases the collection but also adds a sense of depth, turning the cellar into a sculptural element within the home. What began as smart storage has become a true focal point — one that sparks conversation, adds warmth, and reflects the layered detail seen throughout the entire design.

Conclusion

Over the years, we’ve helped many clients navigate the challenges of renovating heritage homes — and this Ormond Street, Ascot project was no exception. From early planning to final detailing, it was a privilege to help bring this 80-year-old Queenslander into its next chapter.

Working closely with the owners, we were able to design and deliver a home that balances character, functionality, and longevity. The result is a residence shaped by trust, craftsmanship, and a shared vision — a home built to support family life for generations to come in the heart of Ascot QLD 4007.

This renovation was also featured in Queensland Homes, recognising it as a standout example of what’s possible when thoughtful design meets heritage context.

Want to explore more of the finished home? Visit the full project page here.

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