Preserving Charm. Enhancing Lifestyle. Building for the Future.
At CU Design, we specialise in character renovations that thoughtfully preserve the timeless beauty of heritage homes, while enhancing them with modern comfort and liveability. Our work carefully preserves the vintage style and craftsmanship of traditional homes while introducing contemporary updates that enhance comfort, flow, and aesthetics. Whether you’re remodelling a historic Queenslander in Paddington, extending a classic period cottage in Red Hill, or breathing new life into a traditional bungalow in Clayfield, we bring deep respect for heritage architecture and a creative approach to modernise your space.
Our team works with the unique character of your house, its history, original features, and structural bones, to design a thoughtful update that feels seamless and intentional. From second-storey additions to clever extensions, interior remodels, exterior facades, open-plan kitchens, and outdoor alfresco spaces, we ensure your home is both beautiful and functional.
With CU Design, your renovation is more than a facelift; it’s a complete improvement rooted in timeless design, expert craftsmanship and forward-thinking processes.
Every character home renovation is unique, and so is our design process. We begin by understanding your vision, your property’s period details, and the council and heritage requirements that shape the refurbishment.. Our in-house design studio and drafting team collaborate with you to create a transformation that balances traditional charm with modern upgrades. Each project is carefully managed to ensure seamless communication and precision from concept to completion.
Restoring original craftsmanship like timberwork, ceilings, and facades
Creating light-filled spaces with smart flow and natural materials
Seamless granny flat and rear extensions
Expert navigation of council approvals and heritage overlay compliance
Custom renovations that refurbish, enhance, and modernise while maintaining authenticity
Deep experience with Brisbane’s character homes
Full-service team covering design to construction
Local knowledge of council guidelines, heritage zones, and building codes
Collaborative, client-focused team that loves to remodel character buildings
A passion for preserving vintage charm while creating modern lifestyle upgrades
A character renovation focuses on preserving the historic style and craftsmanship of a home while enhancing its comfort and functionality. It’s about balancing restoration with smart modern updates, so the interior and exterior feel cohesive and timeless.
At CU Design, we modernise heritage homes by integrating contemporary designs, open-plan interiors, and practical upgrades that improve liveability, without losing the traditional charm. Our approach ensures the decor and aesthetics stay true to the home’s era while enhancing lifestyle.
Restoration brings the home back to its original vintage condition, focusing on authentic materials and craftsmanship. A renovation may involve more structural updates or extensions that remodel the home to suit modern life. We often combine both, restoring key features while introducing thoughtful improvements.
Yes, most character home refurbishments in Brisbane require council approval, especially in heritage overlay areas. Our team navigates this process for you, ensuring your project meets local building codes and heritage restoration requirements.
We take care of the entire process, from initial designs and documentation to council approvals, construction, and finishing touches. Our end-to-end service ensures every project runs smoothly, with attention to detail, communication, and premium craftsmanship at every stage.
Your home’s history deserves to be celebrated—and reimagined for the future. Contact CU Design to book your free consultation and begin your transformation. Together, we’ll bring out the best in your character home, with care, creativity, and craftsmanship that stands the test of time.
