When Burnside House was originally built around 1890, the Camphor Laurel trees that now majestically line Laurel Avenue were yet to be planted. Over 100 years later, the trees have flourished and are now the symbol of one of Brisbane’s most coveted riverside addresses, having brought ambience and grace to the exclusive locale. Burnside itself has similarly thrived over the last century; its stunning original features all carefully preserved, then meticulously renovated and updated to fully suit the most discerning of modern families’ requirements. From the outset, this careful balance of old meets new is apparent, with the heritage-style facade soaring over two full levels to offer formal and casual lifestyle options. The traditional wrap-around veranda has also been extended, giving a third, alfresco alternative that is so well suited to the Queensland climate.

Inside, wonderfully ornate pressed metal ceilings feature throughout, as do VJ walls, air-conditioning and a carefully considered mix of modern atmospheric lighting and traditional feature pendants. The formal sitting and dining rooms are located next to the entrance and provide a fitting introduction to the home beyond. While the sitting room boasts a generous bay window complete with picturesque in-built seat, the dining area enjoys use of the original marble-clad fireplace. Adjacent to these formal rooms is a casual area where open plan living surrounds the expansive, bespoke kitchen. With stainless steel benches, quality European appliances and generous storage (including a walk-in pantry) enclosed behind traditional cabinet profiles, the whole look ensures practicality yet works in so well with the era of the home. This casual area can be opened out onto the main veranda which is large enough to accommodate a family dining table and so makes the perfect spot to dine alfresco, bringing yet another modern dimension to this traditional home.

The impressive master suite is also located on this level, with the generous bedroom enjoying direct access to a balcony, along with a marble-floored walk-in wardrobe and ensuite. The home offers a further four bedrooms- each one boasting generous proportions and access to a terrace or veranda via French doors. One room is located near the front entry and has use of a separate bathroom, (thereby also making it an ideal home office). The other three are located downstairs, where two children’s rooms share the family bathroom while the last bedroom has its own ensuite, making it ideal for guests. The ground floor of the home also allows for a great separation of living with the large, central rumpus room perfect for children to play or teenagers to study. It too has direct access to a covered terrace and the fully fenced grounds beyond. The whole residence sits atop 711sqm, where plentiful formal hedging brings low-maintenance elegance. There is a spacious two-car garage with a separate storage room and a bespoke play house which has been specifically designed to complement the grand main home.

With all amenities and the CBD so close by, the position really is an outstanding one, with this iconic address combining with the generous block and meticulously presented, historic home, to create what is undeniably a superlative, executive residence for all the family.