Picture the traditional Queenslander home in your mind.
You’ll think of meticulously designed timber, wide shaded verandahs and french-provincial entrances.Quintessential Queenslander architecture was developed in the 1840s, with the many and varied styles all sharing similar features such as prominent exterior staircases, gabled roofs and the defining trait of being built on stumps. The main reason for the development of Queenslander homes was the climate - a house with both outdoor verandahs and shelter from the elements was highly desirable.
If there’s a recipe for creating picture-perfect Queenslander homes, Hawthorne has all the components.
Its unique pocket location, combined with the abundance of history from its humble beginnings as a farming district in the 1800s has lead to the evolution of some magnificent Queenslander estates. While being home to a number of heritage listed buildings, the suburb consists primarily of interwar Queenslanders. Hawthorne Queenslanders are often situated on large sites, with room to accommodate plenty of upstairs and downstairs rooms, often selling for hefty price tags.
But what makes this suburb Brisbane's hub of picturesque Queenslander homes?
According to the 2016 census, Hawthorne is home to a large percentage of workers with a professional job type, with 43% having a bachelor degree level of education and above. The median household income is $2410 per week, with the median income per resident being 25% above the median for metropolitan Brisbane, and over $100 better than their Bulimba neighbours. Hawthorne has experienced local records in spending on home renovation, with Queenslander homes being snapped up by high earning residents with the freedom to indulge and spend large amounts renovating and restoring the properties to their former glory.
Place Bulimba agent and Hawthorne specialist, Carla Haddan shares her view. “Hawthorne has some stunning Queenslander homes, which are distinctive to our inner-city suburb. One of the benefits of my job is seeing the different renovations, varying from contemporary to traditional. Purchasing a smaller or untouched Queenslander home is a great stepping stone into the area, because you can add value and put your own stamp on the home with a renovation to suit your needs. It’s a great way to get ahead in the a high end market.
One of my favourite examples was 22-24 Exeter Street, Hawthorne. The buyer purchased a very run down Queenslander that had a number of unfitting extensions added to it over the years. They engaged a builder to strip the property back, and created a beautiful family residence with the traditional Queenslander facade, with all the contemporary amenities inside.”
22 Exeter Street: Before
22 Exeter Street: After
While modern renovations may be easier and cheaper, this property provides the perfect example of the cost and integrity that Hawthorne residents are putting into their Queenslander homes, with the line between old and new being meticulously cared for.
If you're interested in learning more about Hawthorne, check out our suburb profile here.
