Author Shannon Edwards // Place New Farm
With a beautiful large front yard occupied by an 80 year-old tree, a swimming pool and spacious living space, 41 Richmond street, Chelmer, is a family dream home.
I think we can all admit there’s something very special about Queenslander homes, but what’s even more special is when they’ve been around since the 1920’s!
41 Richmond street is rich with character and history.
We ask the current owners Helen and John Deighton about what attracted them to the historical home and what they think is special about the property.
What can you tell us about the history of the home?
The original property on 41 Richmond street was built back in the 1800’s.
At the time, the property used to encompass land down by the river, then in the early 1900’s it was subdivided and the home was built with a tennis court at the front of the property that faced Twickenham street.
Somewhere down the track, the front blocks facing Twickenham street were sold and this home was spun 180 degrees to have the front door facing Richmond street.
This was done under the direction of well-known architect, Elizabeth Watson-Brown, in the mid 90’s.
At this time, Elizabeth designed a pool and extension onto the property.
What attracted you to the historical character Queenslander?
The first thing that attracted us to the property was its large, yet private, front yard.
Straight away we were taken back by the wrap-around verandahs. They capture your attention as soon as you walk up to the house.
When you walk into the home, its beautiful etched lights create an expansive light-filled hallway.
The flow of the house works beautifully, with large bedrooms, high ceilings and several living areas.
The home also has many special features such as little cozy nooks, perfect for when you need some quiet time.
One of our favourite elements was the dual-sided fireplace. It gets a lot of use during winter.
What have you enjoyed about living in the home?
From the day we moved in, the home has been perfect for the children.
Not long after we first settled in the property, there was a summer of continual rain and flooding.
At the time, our three kids were under the age of eight so we thought keeping them inside from the rain would be a real hassle.
They managed to keep themselves entertained all day every day by riding around on their scooters and playing on swings on the lovely wide verandahs.
The large established Poinciana tree in the front yard not only looks beautiful, but has provided hours of swinging, climbing and memory-making.
Being a low-set Queenslander makes for easy living and entertaining.
With kitchen and dining areas opening onto the outdoor entertainment area, it easily integrates the indoor with the outdoor and we have really enjoyed that lifestyle.
The indoor/outdoor dining areas make for easy visibility and accessibility to the pool and front yard enhancing entertaining for all age groups. We’re thankful for the times we had with our friends where we could sit on the deck for hours while watching the kids play in the yard.
Agent, Ann-Karyn Fraser, shares what she thinks is unique about the home.
Built across one level on a large block, this beautiful character home is iconic for Chelmer.
What I think’s practically beautiful about the home is the grand hallway as you walk in and the high ceilings of the house.
With the large veranda, pool and yard, this is a beautiful home for a family… I can just imagine the functions and get-togethers that can be held here. A family will be able to make some very special memories in this home.
Although the home is so grand, it maintains a warm, cosy feeling to it.
Additionally, Chelmer is a very welcoming community. Of an afternoon you’ll see people out everywhere walking their dogs and the neighbourhood children playing in the streets.
Not only is Chelmer a great place to raise a family, but the historical suburb is very high performing – with properties constantly increasing in price.