Plans Filed for Modern Design Twist on Brisbane Tradition

Plans have been filed for a high-end boutique residential development with a modern design twist to the character homes of Brisbane’s inner-city pocket of Paddington.

The proposal comprises five apartments across four storeys with its own sub-tropical landscaped communal “backyard” and multiple pools.

It is earmarked for a 1492sq m site 2.3km west of the CBD at 294-298 Given Terrace and has been lodged with the Brisbane City Council by local orthopaedic surgeon Dr Peter Steadman.

Under the plans, two post-war brick blocks of flats of three and four storeys—deemed to “lack any traditional character”—would be removed to make way for the Bureau Proberts-designed scheme.

To be known as Ti-Tree, taking its name from Ti-Tree Flats, as Paddington was called in the 1850s, its contemporary design draws inspiration from the traditional pre-war buildings scattered throughout the area.

“The overall [scheme] has been appropriately designed to re-introduce traditional character traits in place of the outdated brick unit complexes,” the development application said.

The proposed development would feature four three-bedroom apartments—two with private plunge pools—and a four-bedroom penthouse with a cellar, private pool terrace and gallery. Each unit would be accessed via stairs and a lift with the entry adorned with hanging greenery.

As well, it would provide 212sq m of communal open space—including a triangular-shaped pool surrounded by landscaping “consistent with a traditional Queensland backyard”.

A nurse’s quarters also has been contemplated in the design to allow flexibility of future use but at this stage the space is intended for the use by residents.

“The proposed development has been designed to focus on high levels of comfort and amenity for future residents,” the application said.

According to an urban design report, the architecture of Ti-Tree “builds on the suburban character intrinsic to Paddington’s unique identity”.

“Traditional design elements such as hipped roof forms, screened verandas, feature external entry stairs and landscaped courtyards are re-conceptualised to harmonise heritage with modern day living requirements,” it said.

“The design responds sympathetically to the streetscape by creating a transition in height from taller nearby apartment buildings to the cottage style residential pocket of Paddington.

“Ti-Tree is a testament to the client’s commitment to creating high quality, sustainable and liveable spaces that are in harmony with the surrounding community. 

“The new boutique development looks to add a jewel in the crown of Paddington, offering residents a unique and exceptional living experience and a building that belongs to its context.”

Nearby, the co-founder of online travel booking giant Wotif, Andrew Brice, has filed plans for a townhouse development dubbed the Paddington Printery.

The proposal comprises 12 three to four-bedroom double-storey townhouses with communal courtyards. It is earmarked for a 2165sq m site at 31 Stevenson Street occupied by a complex of office-warehouse buildings, which have been home to a printing company, acting academy and other businesses.