The Governess has sold for more than $12m in a suburb record for Paddington.
A landmark Brisbane ‘Queenslander’ that underwent a mammoth renovation has sold for a suburb record $12m plus.
The Paddington property — so striking that passersbys frequently slow their cars just to catch a glimpse — celebrates the contrast between old and new.
Located across the road from Government House, ‘The Governess’ dates back to the 1860s.
The Governess sits on a massive 1634sq m spread across four blocks on the corner of Fernberg Rd and Reading St.
Brisbane surgeon Justin Perron and his wife Clare Gorman bought the property from NBL star Aron Baynes for $5.8m in 2022, and it came complete with a development approval for awarding-winning design and construction developer Graya to work their magic.
Located across the road from Government House, ‘The Governess’ dates back to the 1860s, and sits on a massive 1634sq m spread across four blocks on the corner of Fernberg Rd and Reading St.
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Brisbane surgeon Justin Perron and his wife Clare Gorman bought the property in 2002 with development approval for developer Graya to work their magic.
The Governess blends the old with the new.
The property was marketed by Ray White Collective selling principal Matt Lancashire and agent Josh Brown and while the exact sale price has not been released, it’s understood to be a suburb record for Paddington.
It sold for more than 9 Reading St, which changed hands for more than $12m earlier this year.
“Governess is an absolute showstopper,” Mr Lancashire said.
“It’s easily one of the most significant and meticulously transformed character homes ever to hit the Brisbane market, and the record-shattering result reflects exactly that.”
The bar.
The Governess is described as a piece of Brisbane history.
While the Perron-Gorman’s are staying within their beloved Paddington suburb, they are excited to hand over the keys to the estate.
“Governess is more than just a house; it is a unified vision of Brisbane history and ‘Graya flair’, ready for its next chapter,” Ms Gorman said.
The property features city views.
The property was marketed by Ray White Collective selling principal Matt Lancashire and agent Josh Brown.
Ms Gorman said when she and Mr Perron first saw the property, they recognised it as an opportunity too good to pass up.
Graya broke ground on the project in early 2024, with the vision of preserving the home’s heritage while also introducing a bold contemporary addition.
The dining room.
Ms Gorman described the result of the transformation as “striking”.
“It took just over a year to renovate the home and it was a labour of love,” Ms Gorman said.
“Graya executed the renovation beautifully and it’s quite surreal to live in such a stunning home.”
While the original residence boasts decorative balustrading, ornate fretwork and interior features such as pressed metal ceilings, the new addition features smooth lines, vast banks of glass and expansive open plan spaces that blend indoor and outdoor living.
The Paddington property is so striking that passersbys frequently slow their cars just to catch a glimpse.
At the heart of the home there is a kitchen designed for the ultimate foodie and entertainer.
A master residence upstairs occupies its own level, and the suite features a private lounge and a signature set of stairs that lead to a bathroom sanctuary.
Downstairs there is a gym and a tasting room, complete with a cellar, bar and lounge behind thermally insulated glass.
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