The work of iconic Brisbane architect at risk of partial demolition

A new development applicant submitted to the Brisbane City Council could see a ‘touchstone of civic identity’ partially destroyed.

A historical home designed by 20th century architect Robin Dods faces partial demolition should plans for a new childcare facility be approved by the Brisbane City Council.

Viva Property Group seeks to build a two-storey childcare centre at 46 Bayview Tce in Clayfield with room for 58 children, two large outdoor play areas, and an undercroft car park, according to an application lodged on September 3.

Development plans to turn the home at 46 Bayview Terrace into a childcare centre. The sections highlighted in red are slated to be demolished.

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The proposal would demolish a large portion of the existing house while simultaneously protecting the “pre-1947 building to be integrated into the childcare centre”.

The buildings of Robin Dods are renowned for being highly characteristic of Brisbane and a “touchstone of civic identity”, according to professor of architectural history at the University of Queensland John Macarthur.

Plans are in motion to partially demolish the home at 46 Bayview Terrace to make way for a childcare centre. Pictured is the current facade.

Development plans to turn the home at 46 Bayview Terrace into a childcare centre. Pictured is the proposed changes.

Mr Macarthur, alongside a number of prominent architectural historians, spoke out against similar plans for a partial demolition of a Dods-designed home to create townhouses in New Farm in 2017.

“The buildings of Dods are of outstanding architectural merit on an international comparison,” Mr Macarthur wrote in a submission to the council.

“(Partial demolition) would more than compromise these significances, it would make a nonsense of any claim we might have to understand our built heritage.”

Robin Dods is an iconic Brisbane architect, known for designing federation homes in and around the city.

The BCC refused that application and the property was subsequently listed on the heritage register for protection. The Clayfield property has no such heritage listing.

Resident Melissa Kerwin urged local council representatives to stand up and protect the integrity of the Clayfield home, stating the construction would threaten both the historical aspects of the home and place pedestrians at risk during morning drop-offs.

Public submissions to support or reject the application remain open on the BCC website.

Development plans to turn the home at 46 Bayview Terrace into a childcare centre. The sections in red are proposed to be demolished.