Jul
To this day, Queenslander homes continue to be built. While the methods and materials used in construction have changed, many modern-day Queenslanders have opted to maintain many of the traditional and iconic design cues of those that helped define the state's heritage look. In today's blog, we look at the key characteristics and decorative embellishments you're often guaranteed to find when looking at a heritage or modern-day Queenslander.
Characteristics of a Queenslander
In Brisbane (and throughout the state of Queensland), one of the most famous heritage home types is that of the Queenslander. Built to account for the climate and unpredicatable weather throughout the state, many Queenslanders can (or already have) earn heritage status. Common characteristics of a Queenslander may include:
- A steep pitched roof that allowed heavy rains to quickly run off the house.
- A tin roof that was, at the time, more formidable when a tropical storm arrived. It was also easier to transport.
- Timber walls. They were lightweight and cost effective, but are notoriously vulnerable to termite damage
- Big verandahs that offered shade and breeze during the hot, humid months.
- Stairs running down from the verandah to ground level - typically situated at the front of the house.
- Often placed on stumps to account for flooding, allow for more airflow, and to make it easier to spot termites
Along with these defining characteristics, many heritage homes in the Brisbane area include other decorative embellishments. Many of these embellishments are also utilised in different ways on modern-day homes, but their look was very defined when it came to heritage Queenslanders. Modern-day Queenslanders embrace many of these decorative embellishments, as well.
Embellishments
When it comes to decorative embellishments, many Queenslanders feature finials, gables (which are often edged by a barge trim and can include descorative inserts), and decorative post brackets. Below is an image with a basic rundown of the sections comprising a finial, barge trim and gable.
With the above in mind, take a look at the next image of a modern-day Queenslander that has been built in a very traditional style. You'll see all of these elements on the exterior of the home, including decorative post brackets (we'll discuss those in a moment).
While barge trims are a little difficult to see due to the overhang on the house, they are there. Decorative inserts have been placed along the gable, and the finial protrudes upwards. As for the decorative post brackets, simply look at those connecting each post along the varendah to the beams above. They mostly serve the purpose of adding decorative character to a Queenslander, much in the same way the decorative inserts help the home stand out.
