The reason we love Queenslanders is because of their old-world charm that no other type of house can replicate. First built in the 1800s, their cottage-like design is a magnifying glass into our rich history. However, with that antiquity comes the need for a little modernisation to keep up with the way we live today. Finding the right balance between old-meets-new can be challenging when renovating a Queenslander, which is why we’ve put together these top tips for modernizing a Queenslander home.
1. Focus on making it comfortable to live in
Unrenovated Queenslanders are not renowned for being well insulated. As such, they can get a little uncomfortable during Brisbane’s summer heat and cold winter nights. That’s why when renovating your home, you should prioritise ways to make your home snug in winter and airy in summer. A simple way to do that is by sealing the gaps that are often present in the walls and also lining them to improve the internal insulation of the walls.
2. Make the most of your verandas
One of the most iconic features of Queenslanders is their verandahs, which are often the focal point of a home. However, many renovations neglect to make the most of these spaces. With a little bit of planning, you can maximise every inch of space to really prioritise outdoor living. You can add an outdoor kitchen, ceiling fans and even line a certain area with walls to make it a pleasant area to entertain guests or relax in.
3. Re-design the interior layout
Unrenovated Queenslanders are known for being small internally and having a lot of seperate rooms. This can often make the space feel crammed and quite boxy. To open up the space, think about removing some internal walls to create more practical living areas, and also building under if this is a possibility.
4. Focus on natural light
Queenslanders are also notorious for having very dark interiors, which can be quite gloomy, especially when you want to relax in the early evening. One way to add more natural light into the home is by installing larger windows and also keeping them clear from furniture so they act as a blank canvas for extra light to enter.
5. Update with modern appliances and fixtures
Queenslanders are full of character, but many households today need a little extra modernity in their homes. One way to achieve that is by installing modern appliances and fixtures that facilitate your everyday life and that will also last a long time.
6. Improve storage solutions
Queenslanders are known to be quite cramped internally, which makes it challenging to store your belongings. Luckily, you can maximise the use of your space by investing in some clever storage solutions. Don’t just stick to the latest kitchen trend; you can find storage solutions that will help in any aspect of your home whether it’s in the bathroom or bedroom, or even under the staircase!
Modernizing a Queenslander home is no easy feat, but with these top tips, you’ll be able to do it while still celebrating its original charm.
