COORPAROO HOUSE

Nielsen Jenkins reimagines a typical "Queenslander" to generate an unpretentious balance between openness, connection and privacy.

DELINEATING SPACE

A common challenge for houses of this style – particularly those on smaller sites – is that privacy on the lower level can be compromised, and outdoor living is then limited to a deck or veranda. To combat this, the home's downstairs living spaces were designed as one large space that flows out into the secluded backyard and pool, with the bedrooms raised to the upper floor, putting them at a different height to the neighbours.

Kitchen view showing the Minimal Gas Hob.

Project Type: Residential Home

Location: Queensland, Australia

Architect: Nielsen Jenkins

Photographer: Tom Ross

A SENSE OF CONNECTION

Beyond its unassuming black timber–batten faÇade, the home is defined by a surprising sense of openness. Downstairs, the space reads as one, and the house can be completely open from front to back. Polished concrete floors stretch the length of the room, drawing the eye through the building. Additionally, the architects created two tile–lined voids that connect the floors and bring in more natural light and ventilation.

Shot of the living area, showcasing a fireplace at the centre.

SOFT BOUNDARIES

Rather than using internal walls downstairs, public and private zones were nominally designated through strategically placed joinery, apertures, colour, and the fireplace. The kitchen–dining area is located at the back of the house, opening directly to the garden. With entertaining front of mind, a range of Fisher & Paykel appliances was selected by the clients to complement the minimal kitchen design and colour palette used throughout the house.