A complementary update in conjunction with Michael Hogg of Hogg and Lamb enhances the fabric of the home's original James Russell design.
Nestled between two Fortitude Valley heritage buildings, Brookes Street House is an iconic contemporary residence originally designed by architect James Russell for his family.
The inner city home was purchased in 2021 by Place New Farm agent Heath Williams as a passion project.
Image: Brookes Street House. Source: Brock Beazley PhotographyHeath’s background in Interior design informed his brief for the renovation of the property, working with Michael Hogg of Hogg and Lamb to craft a thoughtful renovation in the same design language as Russell’s original design.
LUXURY LIST WEEKEND spoke with Heath about the project.
What attracted you to purchase Brookes Street House?
The moment I saw it I knew I needed it. I found it so inspirational and the relationship with the Church so unique and enjoyable.
When I first viewed the property it was being used as a commercial space and hadn’t received the love and care needed for the previous 10 years, but I had a vision and could see how it could be transformed into its former glory.
Source: Brock Beazley PhotographyGiven the design was originally for architect James Russell’s own family home, what was the brief to Michael Hogg of Hogg and Lamb for your renovation?
We worked through making sure any changes were in the same design language. My objective was never to change the fabric of the design, but to update and enhance.
When initially designed 12 years ago, the home was somewhat experimental and for all intents and purposes it was a breathable passive house, but as the surrounding area has significantly built up I changed a number of those elements to make it perfectly suitable for urban living.
How did your background in Interior Design and Real Estate influence the remodelling of your own home?
This was a passion project and decisions were made purely on design and not resale. I converted to a 2 bedroom from a 3 bedroom, which is not something you do when you’re trying to please everyone.
Source: Brock Beazley PhotographyWhat motivated your selection of materials and colours ie. lighting, tiles, tapware, finishes?
This was already dictated by the home. Everything was to be complementary, not competitive. We continued with the same materiality of the home and repeated and replicated it throughout, but in an updated form.
Your home is both stunning in design and very liveable, how did you balance both of these considerations?
I feel all I have done has made it more liveable. It’s still by nature a very interactive home. Highly architectural homes by nature are not what I’d call luxurious but in my view the emotive response I have to this home far outweighs that.
Source: Brock Beazley PhotographyYour interest in design and architecture has seen you become the ‘go to’ agent in Brisbane for vendors of unique properties, how do you best describe your niche and what are the advantages to your clients, both buyers and sellers?
People come to me as they know I understand the process. I know what has gone into the home and know the value of materials. Most unique homes have a story and the storytelling for me is what I enjoy most. Anyone can tell you the basics, but can they tell you the why?
Source: Brock Beazley PhotographyWith your experience in Interior Design and your successful Real Estate Career and insight into what the market wants, what is next on the horizon?
I’m currently negotiating on some land and I will produce my own projects that are design focused. Watch this space!
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