O’Shea and Sons is a family business. We understand the importance of history and memories created in a family home.
We pride ourselves on treating pre-loved buildings and family homes with appreciation and respect for the significant role they have played in our clients’ lives, as well as being passionate about preserving the architectural characteristics and monumental building efforts of the past for the benefit of future generations.
So when South Brisbane homeowners Chris and Amy contacted us in July 2018 to ask our help in preserving and extending their pre-1946 home in Morningside we jumped at the chance.
The Design Brief
Chris and Amy’s plan was to build an extension underneath their home which was raised off the ground in typical Queenslander fashion. They wanted the renovation to include a master suite, a second bedroom, bathroom, and laundry. Along with these practical additions, the owners wanted the new extension to include a living area with large bi-fold doors opening onto an outdoor entertainment area with complimenting inground lap pool.
With our 50 years of collective industry experience and our familiarity with the ever-popular Queenslander style home, we were eager to offer our assistance with the project.
The History
Morningside is one of the oldest suburbs southeast of Brisbane’s centre. In 1889 the South Brisbane to Cleveland railway line was opened and the Bulimba railway station was built allowing for easier access to the Bulimba Railway Station Estate. After witnessing the morning sun glinting on the banks of the Brisbane River locals poetically dubbed their home Morningside.
In the 1920s Morningside was populated by 2000 residents. But by the end of the Second World War, the area grew dramatically in size with new families arriving and building homes. It was around this time of growth that the Symons’ house was built in the popular raised Queenslander fashion.
The Project
After the initial contact was made, O’Shea and Sons communicated with Chris and Amy sharing ideas and working together to conceive an impactful renovation that introduced modern facilities and comfort to the home while respecting its history. An important and common reason for the renovation of an existing family home is making it more efficient and repairing the signs of age. We carefully selected materials to restore features of the home that were historical and important to the family while considering ways to integrate environmentally conscious materials that will last for generations to come.
With our generations of experience and unique connections to the Queensland building community, we have access to the best materials and tradesmen for every type of job – incredibly important for the particular needs of home restorations and renovations. Bathroom and pool tiles were selected locally from The Tile Mob while cabinetry solutions were offered by Allfit. Laundry and Bathroom sinks and tapware were provided by Abey and Polytec. The stunning timber flooring was supplied and installed by Awesome Timber Floors and the fresh exterior walling is constructed with the superior James Hardie cladding
The beautiful lap pool, a modern touch of comfort, was supplied by our friends at Wholesale Pool Shells.
The Turnover
We began major renovations of Chris and Amy’s Qld home in June 2019 and the finished project handed over on 20th September 2019.
The Feedback
It’s always good to hear how a build went from the perspective of the homeowner! Chris and Amy were generous enough to answer some of our questions about how they felt during the renovation…
How did you find the process of building with Nick and his team?
“We had a great experience with Nick and the team. The communication from Nick throughout the process was excellent. We always felt informed and there were no major surprises. He also navigated tricky circumstances with good outcomes (i.e the council and the fence!). As we were living upstairs throughout the renovation, the O’Shea & Sons team was always considerate of our family.”
Was there any part of the journey that was a standout?
“The upfront part of the process was excellent in terms of setting a clear path forward – Nick clearly articulated the steps involved and the rough timeframes. We were also really impressed with the tradespeople Nick used – clearly experienced and well connected with Nick and each other. They presented a really united team.”
What’s your new favourite feature of your home?
“The outdoor alfresco area/pool area and the ensuite. Amy also loves having a proper laundry!”
Would you recommend O’Shea & Sons Builders to others, if so what are some of the reasons behind your recommendation?
“Yes! A great team to deal with. As per all our comments above, Nick and his team are a smart, professional and efficient building company we would happily recommend or use again. Nice people as well.”
We are pretty proud of this renovation and would like to invite you to take a look at the finished product. Talk to us about the history of your home or allow us to share with you our passion and knowledge of quality home renovation.