TEXTURE MESSAGE

A calm and composed palette lends an aura of quiet sophistication to this apartment in Brisbane that enhances its enviable position high above the river.

- JUDY PASCOE

The owners of this three-level riverside apartment in Brisbane had lived there for 10 years before deciding to take the plunge and renovate. In the highly sought-after suburb of New Farm, the apartment enjoys expansive views of the Brisbane River and CBD, and there is plenty of space for their two children and dog as well as for entertaining.

But the apartment had a very slick, masculine feel with its glossy black marble floors and the family wanted something warmer and more approachable. Having worked with interior designer Samantha Leigh, principal of Samantha Leigh Interiors, on a commercial project, they engaged her in 2020 for a complete reimagining of their home.

With luxury inclusions such as a private pool and gardens, a gym and a separate entrance the apartment is a special property, conveniently located close to the city as well as upmarket shopping areas and restaurants. The owners were committed to staying put and transforming it into a home that could evolve with their needs and desires over time.

Along with a fireplace and a table-tennis table, high on the owners’ wishlist was an extra bedroom and bathroom, necessitating a ‘gut renovation’ to rework the layout and take it to a four-bedroom, four-and-a-half-bathroom home. “The connection with the outdoor spaces and view of the river was a constant,” says Samantha. “However, internally we took the apartment back to the framework across all levels to facilitate the desired changes.”