Incredible plans have been revealed for a home originally commissioned by Australian professional basketballer Aron Baynes.
The historic, 1860s-era house is iconic in Brisbane, sitting on an elevated 1634 sqm block with sweeping city views in the heart of inner-city Paddington.
Former NBA player, Baynes and his wife, Rachel, paid $4.5m for the Fernberg Rd property in 2021 and planned to spend at least another $3m rebuilding it with plans by local developer/builder, Graya.
An artist’s impression of plans for Graya’s latest project in Fernberg Rd, Paddington. Image supplied by Graya.
An artist’s impression of plans for the iconic home, which will be finished in a few months. Image supplied by Graya.
But it was later onsold to a local surgeon who reengaged Graya to undertake the project, known as ‘The Governess’, with the approved plans and designs.
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Graya describes the plans for the residence as “honouring its heritage while embracing modern sophistication”.
“Throughout the process, we’ve remained committed to preserving the heritage character of this landmark Queenslander while seamlessly integrating modern design.
An artist’s impression of plans for Graya’s latest project ‘The Governess’. Image supplied by Graya.
An artist’s impression of plans for the pool area. Image supplied by Graya.
“Every detail has been carefully considered — restoring heritage features with precision while introducing contemporary finishes that enhance both form and function.
“The seamless open-plan layout redefines the way this home is experienced, creating a harmonious flow between old and new.”
It is now only months away from completion.
An artist’s impression of plans to transform one of Brisbane’s most iconic homes. Image supplied by Graya.
An artist’s impression of plans for the kitchen. Image supplied by Graya.
The property was originally built by workers from the UK to live in while they worked on the nearby Governor’s residence.
On the entry level of the original home, there were reception and entertaining rooms with high, pressed metal ceilings, a formal lounge and a dining room with French doors opening to a sunroom.
There was also a library on this level and a large drawing room, which had been converted into self-contained accommodation, complete with its own entry, kitchenette and bathroom.
This property at 175 Fernberg Rd, Paddington, sold for $4.5 million in 2021.
The original property had wide verandas and sweeping views.
The home had five open fireplaces, a grand timber staircase and deep verandas.
One of the stars of the Australian Boomers over the past decade and a veteran of 576 NBA games across five different clubs, Baynes joined the Brisbane Bullets ahead of the 2022/2023 season before retiring last year.
He was an NBA champion with the San Antonio Spurs in 2014 and also enjoyed incredible success during his time in Europe, playing in Lithuania, Germany, Greece and Slovenia.
Aron Baynes warms up during the round two NBL match between Brisbane Bullets and Cairns Taipans in 2023. Photo: Russell Freeman/Getty Images.
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