Reimagining Space: Transforming a Queenslander Through Smart Renovation! / January 20, 2025 by Jasmin Brammer

Interior renovation with finishes / colour palette

Brammer Architects were engaged to design a dining room extension to an existing colonial ‘Queenslander’. However, after carefully assessing the existing spaces, their uses, and the client’s needs, it became clear that a renovation, rather than an extension, would deliver a superior result and better value for money.

The key elements of the proposed renovation were:

Maximising functionality: The renovation would make more effective use of existing spaces, enhancing practicality and usability for the clients.
Improving natural elements: By opening up the house, the design would provide greater access to natural light, cross-ventilation, and exterior views, significantly enriching the clients’ daily living experience and comfort.
Reallocating funds for impact: Instead of extending, the budget would be directed towards a new, centrally located contemporary kitchen, tailored to the client’s needs while also adding substantial value to the property.
Restoring character: The renovation would reinstate a previously enclosed verandah, breathing new life into the home and celebrating its original character.

By adopting a strategy that worked within the building’s existing footprint, Brammer Architects were able to deliver a design that is more functional, comfortable, and enjoyable, while also enhancing the property’s value as a capital asset.

Material Selection Made Easy: Brammer Architects and Interior Design Services for a Buderim Renovation / November 19, 2024 by Jasmin Brammer

At Brammer Architects, we understand that selecting the perfect materials is one of the most exciting and important stages in any design project. As part of our Interior Design services, we take the time to guide our clients through this process, often accompanying them to local Sunshine Coast showrooms to ensure their choices align seamlessly with their vision, lifestyle, and budget.

Proposed kitchen design concept showing selected Quartzite stone.

Personalised Guidance and Expert Recommendations

Material selection is about more than just choosing colours and finishes—it’s about understanding how each element contributes to the overall design. We believe that visiting showrooms with our clients is an invaluable part of the journey. Recently, we worked with clients on a Buderim renovation, visiting one of our trusted local suppliers, ACE Stone + Tiles, to explore their curated range of porcelain tiles and natural stone slabs. These visits are an opportunity to see, touch, and feel the materials in person, ensuring every decision is informed and inspired.

Discovering the Perfect Stone for a Timeless Kitchen

During this visit, we helped our clients navigate a wide range of benchtop options for their kitchen renovation. While premium porcelain surfaces offered excellent durability and style, the standout choice was a stunning natural quartzite slab. Its unmatched beauty, resilience, and timeless appeal made it the ideal feature for their sophisticated kitchen design. By working closely with the supplier, we ensured that every detail—down to the unique patterns and textures of the stone—would elevate the overall aesthetic of their space.

Seamless Collaboration with Local Suppliers

At Brammer Architects, we value our strong relationships with trusted local suppliers who share our dedication to quality and service. Collaborating with experts in materials like tiles, stone, and finishes allows us to provide our clients with access to the latest products, trends, and professional advice. These partnerships ensure that every material selected is not only beautiful but also practical and long-lasting.

Your Vision, Our Expertise

Whether you’re building your dream home or updating an existing space, Brammer Architects is here to make the process effortless and enjoyable. From initial concept design to the final selection of materials, we’re committed to bringing your vision to life with thoughtful, creative, and sustainable solutions.

Contact Brammer Architects today to discuss your project, and let’s plan a personalised showroom visit to explore the perfect materials for your design. Together, we’ll create a space that reflects your unique style and enhances the way you live.

Buderim House Renovation – Construction Commencing January 2025 / November 13, 2024 by Jasmin Brammer

Brammer Architects is excited to announce the upcoming construction phase of an extensive residential renovation in Buderim, set to begin in January 2025. Initially, our clients reached out to us for assistance with designing a thoughtfully integrated lift. However, our discussions revealed an opportunity to address broader deficiencies in the existing layout and building performance, leading to a more comprehensive transformation that aligns with the Sunshine Coast lifestyle and environment.

The result is a contemporary renovation design that respects and utilises the existing structure while introducing improvements that maximise accessibility, comfort, and connection to the stunning natural surroundings. The goal is a cohesive living space that embodies the essence of coastal living and capitalises on the unique beauty of Buderim.

**Buderim Renovation Artists Impression**

Design Challenges and Solutions

The renovation addressed several existing issues with well-planned architectural solutions by Brammer Architects. Here’s an overview of the key challenges and our proposed approaches:

Accessibility: Too Many Steps and Level Changes
Challenge: Multiple steps and changes in level limited accessibility and flow throughout the home.
Solution: We reconfigured the space and, where possible, rationalised the levels by raising floors and creating a smoother and more accessible layout.
Inefficient Stair Configuration
Challenge: The existing stair layout was bulky and space-consuming.
Solution: By reconfiguring the stairs and incorporating a new lift, we improved spatial efficiency and created a clear, logical path for movement throughout the home.
Roof Leaks and Inadequate Weather Protection
Challenge: The roof showed signs of leaking, and weatherproofing details were insufficient.
Solution: We’ve designed a new roof with improved detailing and extended eaves for enhanced protection against the elements.
Subfloor Drainage Issues
Challenge: Poor drainage around the subfloor was affecting the home’s structural integrity.
Solution: We introduced a subfloor drainage system, implemented alongside the lift installation, to mitigate water ingress and improve the foundation's stability.
Limited Sun and Weather Protection on Eastern Deck and Façade
Challenge: The home’s eastern deck lacked sufficient shade and weather protection.
Solution: A new wrap-around deck offers better sun protection, providing a comfortable, shaded outdoor space that reflects the charm of traditional Queensland architecture and embraces Sunshine Coast indoor-outdoor living.
Underutilised Vista and Outlook
Challenge: The home’s beautiful coastal and bushland views weren’t fully appreciated from the main living areas.
Solution: We’ve added substantial glazing, including a glazed corner, to create a more direct, dramatic connection between the main living spaces and the surrounding vistas.
Kitchen Replacement and Reorientation
Challenge: The kitchen, a high-use space, was outdated and poorly positioned.
Solution: A new, modern kitchen has been designed and positioned to take full advantage of the outlook, enhancing both function and aesthetics in the heart of the home.

As we move toward construction, our team is thrilled to see this vision come to life. With careful attention to functionality, accessibility, and connection to the coastal surroundings, this renovation represents Brammer Architects' commitment to creating spaces that not only meet our clients’ needs but also celebrate the natural beauty of Buderim and the Sunshine Coast.

Stay tuned for updates as construction gets underway in January 2025!