Photographer: John Downs Photography

Ardath House – Where Heritage Meets Contemporary Family Living

Nestled among leafy grounds, Ardath House, a 1910 Queenslander, has been thoughtfully reimagined to harmonise heritage elegance with the rhythms of modern family life. The home now balances timeless charm with functional spaces for entertaining, everyday living, and multi-generational gatherings.

The sunroom, once carpeted and dated, was transformed into a bright, welcoming hub. Patterned tiles echo the leadlight windows and kitchen palette, while a curated mix of modern and classical furniture — including a large sofa repurposed from another room, a jute rug, and a solid mango timber coffee table — creates a versatile, robust space for book clubs, grandchildren, and family celebrations. Lush palms and carefully considered accessories add layers of warmth and character, bridging past and present seamlessly.

The great-room-style living area was redesigned to feel inviting and intimate. Oversized wool rugs define seating zones, performance fabric sofas balance comfort and style, and light-reflecting strategies — including mirrors, lighter-toned rugs, and refreshed wall finishes — transform the space with a luminous, airy quality. Cherished heirlooms, from chesterfield sofas to an upright piano, were integrated thoughtfully, maintaining a sense of history while accommodating contemporary living.

Every detail, from the paint palette drawn from the home’s exterior, kitchen, and leadlight features to bespoke furnishings and functional solutions, was meticulously considered. The result is a home that honours its architectural heritage while embracing the joys of family life — elegant, approachable, and effortlessly livable. Ardath House is not just a restoration; it is a celebration of design that respects history, enhances lifestyle, and creates spaces where memories are made.