The Breeze House: A Modern Queenslander With Classic Interiors

There’s a good reason why the classic Queenslander remains a staple of interior design. Symbolised by its high-setting and iconic surrounding verandah, its instantly recognisable architecture has all the hallmarks of a welcoming abode steeped in Aussie cultural heritage.

However, what if you wanted to modernise this remarkable facade yet retain its unmistakable essence? That was the intention of interior designer Nikki Harms from Our Next Project, who was inspired by classic Queenslanders and modern-coastal design to realise the ultimate beach house hybrid: The Breeze House. 

We gain some insights from Harms about this inspired project strategically built for family life and entertainment, which delights with its persuasive positivity and invigorating breath of fresh air.  

The moment you lay eyes on this coastal home, the accomplishment of its carefully crafted architectural design can be appreciated. It all hinges on imaginatively transforming spacial opportunities into a family home that revels in the Gold Coast climate. The Breeze House was clearly built for an invigorating family life. 

This enchanting beach house combines classic Queenslanders with modern-coastal design, and Nikki drew from these intriguing stylistic characteristics for inspiration.

“We’ve always loved the traditional Queenslander style that is timeless with high ceilings, large kitchens, and features T&G [flooring],” she says. “Being so close to the beach and in the heart of Burleigh Heads, it was hard not to give the home a coastal feel as well.”

From the welcoming open-plan interiors to the weatherboard exteriors, the use of space in The Breeze House is a particular eye-opener: every room plays with it advantageously, adding some distinguishing features along the way.

“We asked our [Architect] Bianca [Gemmill] from BCG Building Design to create a home with the specific look we were after, but centred around the pool with high ceilings and a curved staircase,” continues Nikki. “We also wanted to use real timber French doors throughout to completely open the house up. Bianca created this design from just one meeting, and we were stoked with the floor plan, style, and uniqueness of the home.”

While the verandah is beautifully retained, the impressive interiors of The Breeze House are further distinguished by other attributes typical of traditional Queenslanders. These include, amongst others, picture rails, decadent architraves, and VJ detailing, while the modern inclusion of the aforementioned sculptural staircase in the foyer provides an intriguing point-of-difference.

“[They] really give the home an extra level of detail. The curved staircase, light oak floors, and arch doors lend the home the modern-coastal twist we were hoping for.”

The residence is further distinguished by its choice of tapware and other functional fixtures that provide pleasing consistency throughout the kitchen and bathrooms. Take, for instance, the inclusion of items from the Kingsley Provincial Collection, which Nikki discloses was prompted by the product’s auspicious launch.

“Just as we had finished the design for The Breeze House, ABI released the Kingsley range!” says Nikki. “It was perfect timing, and it all looks so classy and beautiful throughout the house. The shower heads, towel rails, and tapware all have beautiful detail, and the brushed nickel is also a colour that will stand the test of time.” 

A thought-provoking curio of classic Queenslander and modern-coastal design, The Breeze House has resulted in a dream of structural integrity that seamlessly fits into the Gold Coast lifestyle.

For a broad range of interior design guides, explore the rest of our home inspiration articles.