Reviving a Century-Old Beauty: The Magnificent Transformation of Katanga

The century-old residence Katanga is currently undergoing a transformation that is expected to restore it to its former glory.



Brisbane’s distinguished luxury builders, Solaire Properties, have taken on the task of renovating this historic character house into a luxurious modern residence. 

Heritage-listed Katanga was initially built in 1884 for the distinguished Dickson family, who played significant roles in the business and political spheres of both Brisbane and Queensland. It was built in the Colonial style that was prevalent during the nineteenth century and reflects the residential development of Hamilton in the late nineteenth century. 

At the time of its construction, Hamilton and Ascot were emerging as affluent residential areas, attracting wealthy and middle-class residents.

 Reviving a Century-Old Beauty: The Magnificent Transformation of Katanga
Photo credit: Solaire / katangabysolaire.com.au

Although determining the exact departure date of the Dickson family from the property may be difficult to ascertain, available evidence indicates that they might have sold it in 1905.

Before Solaire Properties took on the project, the property had remained unoccupied for a minimum of 15 years and had significantly deteriorated. They noted that there were indications of homeless individuals inhabiting the premises, as well as severe wood rot, asbestos, and water damage.  

 Reviving a Century-Old Beauty: The Magnificent Transformation of Katanga
Photo credit: Solaire / katangabysolaire.com.au

To design the renovation, Solaire Properties enlisted the assistance of Twohill and James, a renowned architecture firm. The project, which includes a 7-meter pool, a deck, an internal lift, a mudroom, a home gym, and a theatre, among other features, will include a new build that will account for more than 50% of the property. The result will be an entirely new home and a luxurious house and land package.

 Reviving a Century-Old Beauty: The Magnificent Transformation of Katanga
Photo credit: Solaire / katangabysolaire.com.au

Katanga is set to be an extraordinary property, boasting 1,113m2 of land, approximately 1,145m2 of GFA, and a six-car basement. It will include six bedrooms, six bathrooms, and two powder rooms, lift access to all three levels, a temperature-controlled wine cellar, a gym, and a cinema room.

This property boasts more than 32 meters of street frontage to one of Brisbane’s highly regarded streets, situated among Hamilton’s esteemed residences on the hillside.

 Solaire is Reviving a Century-Old Beauty
Photo credit: Solaire / katangabysolaire.com.au

It also features breathtaking Brisbane River views and is located within proximity to popular dining and retail precincts, including Portside Wharf, Eat Street, and Ascot’s Racecourse Road.



 Solaire is Reviving a Century-Old Beauty
Photo credit: Solaire / katangabysolaire.com.au

In addition, the property falls within the catchment areas of Ascot State School, Fortitude Valley State Secondary College, and Aviation High. Furthermore, it is conveniently located just a short drive away from several of Brisbane’s high-end private schools and colleges.

Published 14-April-2023