Greenslopes Sophia

This new house was built by its owner Doug Bretherton of Bretherton Builders – and it’s a great example of quality, innovation and problem-solving. Design and construction were constrained by a very narrow block and a sewerage manhole requiring access. The site offered million dollar views of the city, and Doug wanted the insulation benefits of block and concrete construction but in a lighter framed house without visible support beams. Architecturally inspired by an American loft, the house was built on three levels and designed around the manhole. The upper level incorporates spectacular views uninterrupted by internal walls. This distinctive residence has strong retro-contemporary appeal and modern clean lines. Externally, the skillion roof and fibre cement cladding with cover strips are reminiscent of houses popular in the 50s and 60s. Internally, the absence of bulkheads and beams allows the high ceilings and vast open living areas that make this house an ideal ‘entertainers’ home’.

This new house was built by its owner Doug Bretherton of Bretherton Builders – and it’s a great example of quality, innovation and problem-solving. Design and construction were constrained by a very narrow block and a sewerage manhole requiring access.

The site offered million dollar views of the city, and Doug wanted the insulation benefits of block and concrete construction but in a lighter framed house without visible support beams. Architecturally inspired by an American loft, the house was built on three levels and designed around the manhole. The upper level incorporates spectacular views uninterrupted by internal walls. This distinctive residence has strong retro-contemporary appeal and modern clean lines. Externally, the skillion roof and fibre cement cladding with cover strips are reminiscent of houses popular in the 50s and 60s. Internally, the absence of bulkheads and beams allows the high ceilings and vast open living areas that make this house an ideal ‘entertainers’ home’.

  • Doug was interested in my ideas and adding to them, rather than telling me what I should want. Any building process is painful – there’s lots of stress and anything can go wrong. But Doug just made the whole process smoother than a lot of people experience. The tradespeople always seemed very friendly and courteous, and everything was tidy even in the middle of the build. The attention to detail was exceptional. Everyone who visits my home comments on this. I would most definitely use Doug again, whether it be for a renovation or new build. You just can’t go past the quality.
    Lisa Tait
    Greenslopes
  • Doug’s attention to detail is of extremely high quality and his responsiveness was great. The building process was very easy. Luckily for us, or perhaps unlucky for Doug, we were on-site during the build. He kept us up-to-date, asked questions when needed, and was very practical. I would definitely use Doug again. He’s been fantastic. Doug would probably say himself that he’s not going to be the cheapest, but quality counts. I certainly think that the few extra dollars for the meticulous finishes he insists upon are well worth a quality job. Renovation-Tarragindi-sculpture-backyard-steppingstones-pendants-lawn-outdoor-living Renovation-Tarragindi-deck-outdoor-living-pendand-backyard Renovation-Tarragindi-outdoor-bathroom-yellow-vanity-mirror-garden-pendantClick Image to view Portfolio
    Cath Griffin
    Manager
  • Doug was interested in my ideas and adding to them, rather than telling me what I should want. Any building process is painful – there’s lots of stress and anything can go wrong. But Doug just made the whole process smoother than a lot of people experience. The tradespeople always seemed very friendly and courteous, and everything was tidy even in the middle of the build. The attention to detail was exceptional. Everyone who visits my home comments on this. I would most definitely use Doug again, whether it be for a renovation or new build. You just can’t go past the quality.
    Lisa Tait
    Greenslopes