PROJECT 126 — 4 Bale Street.

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  • Collaborator:

    • Info

  • Location:

    • Ascot, Brisbane

  • Timeline:

    • 2024-2025

  • Scope:

    • Luxury Heritage Renovation with New Basement, Third Storey and Full Landscape Rebuild

  • Architect/Designer:

    • Harris Designs Bellavie Interiors ECRU Landscape Design

  • Photography:

    • Jack Gibson Photo

 

“We used Allen Brothers to substantially renovate our near 100 year old house. The renovation included both building up and digging down and also a fair bit in the middle. The guys were excellent to deal with. There was a lot going on most of the time and they managed it all superbly and took an interest in little tweaks and in making suggestions along the way. There are lots of horror stories about builders but you won’t hear any of those from us. We couldn’t recommend them highly enough.”

Client : Frank

 

Project Overview

The scope centred on two major structural interventions:

  • Excavating deep into solid rock to create a full basement level beneath the existing footprint

  • Removing the entire roof structure to convert the former attic into a fully functional third storey

Both components required meticulous planning, engineering, and sequencing to protect the heritage fabric while enabling substantial expansion.

Basement Level Construction

To unlock additional living and storage capacity, the team undertook significant bulk excavation through solid rock, carving out an entirely new subterranean level while maintaining the integrity of the home above. This required underpinning the existing double‑brick wall, allowing the basement to be safely formed beneath the original structure. The engineering‑driven approach established the groundwork for a complete reconfiguration of the home’s layout, enabling the dramatic expansion that followed

The new basement includes:

  • Three‑car garage with internal access

  • Wine cellar/Display

  • Dedicated storage zones

  • Additional living or retreat space

The excavation required precision saw‑cutting, controlled hammering, and engineered temporary propping to maintain structural stability throughout the works.

Third‑Level Transformation

The existing roof was carefully removed to enable the transformation of the original attic into a full third level, designed to integrate seamlessly with the home’s architectural character. This new upper floor accommodates a premium master suite, complete with separate his and her walk‑in robes — with her robe positioned to capture uninterrupted city views — along with a dedicated yoga room and a private parents’ retreat that provides a calm, elevated sanctuary away from the main living zones.

The new third storey addition includes:

  • A premium master suite

  • Separate his walk‑in robe

  • A her walk‑in robe positioned to capture full city views

  • A dedicated yoga room

  • A private parents’ retreat

  • Expanded living and retreat spaces

  • Improved natural light and ventilation

  • Enhanced views and stronger connection to the surrounding landscape

The new roof structure was rebuilt to modern engineering standards while respecting the home’s heritage proportions and detailing, ensuring the extension feels both contemporary and contextually grounded.

Landscsape Transformation

Externally, the transformation continued with major landscape works. The previously sloping backyard was retained and levelled, enabling a complete landscape re‑design that introduced structured planting, new lawn areas and improved outdoor circulation. The result is a cohesive indoor–outdoor environment that enhances both the usability and the visual appeal of the property.

Throughout the home, premium finishes, thoughtful detailing and a refined material palette tie the old and new together seamlessly. The result is a sophisticated, highly functional family home that honours its heritage character while delivering contemporary comfort and elevated living.

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