At Home with Michael and Marlo Branagh in Teneriffe, Brisbane

Often when in the front garden of their home in Brisbane’s Teneriffe, Michael and Marlo Branagh have been stopped by passers-by asking for a look inside the striking house.

36 Teneriffe Dr will soon come onto the market. Picture: Brock Beazley/ Supplied

On more than one occasion, when gardening at the front of their home in Brisbane’s Teneriffe, Michael and Marlo Branagh have been stopped by passers-by.

“I love your house,” they have said. “I’d love to have a look inside.”

The compliment was no surprise, with the couple’s mid-century home well known in design circles for its dark and brooding brutalist architectural design.

Dubbed Chambers House in honour of the property’s original owner and architect, Rodney Chambers, who built the property in the late 1970s, it is recognisable for its modernist influences and the use of concrete, blockwork and joinery.

The couple bought the property in 2016, making them only the second owners in 50 years.

It stood for almost five decades on its commanding spot atop Teneriffe Hill virtually unchanged. But Mr Branagh, who is Tourism and Events Queensland’s group executive of marketing, said parts of the home had deteriorated and were in dire need of restoration.

“But, what we saw was the bones were there; the structure was incredibly sound.

“We were very meticulous and very particular about paying homage to the original architecture and design, yet still wanted to create a contemporary modern home that was very liveable.”

The home has a commanding spot atop Teneriffe Hill. Picture: Brock Beazley

Local architect Shaun Lockyer was brought in to draw up the renovation. The goals were to create distinct spaces and zones across the three levels, introduce modern inclusions like a walk-in robe and butler’s pantry and redesign the stairs and bathrooms to improve the flow of rooms. In addition, landscape designer Steven Clegg crafted soft and lush outdoor spaces to complement the strong structure.

“We’ve always been fans of architecture and architectural properties,” Mr Branagh said.

“It was unique; there are very few properties like this in Brisbane. So, the opportunity to take on a project and completely transform the house to what it is today is what it’s all about.”

All the flooring is original, the family sought out the original quarry the slate was from in the UK to make changes seamlessly. Each of the beams that threaded the roof also had to be replaced.

One of the family’s favourite additions was the balcony now attached to the main living room, which captures the rapidly changing skyline of Newstead and glimpses of the snaking Brisbane River.

In the afternoon glow of summer, Michael and Marlo often entertain and enjoy a gin – one of the few things the minimalist family collects – while, in winter, 17-year-old Mia loves to roast marshmallows in the outdoor fireplace.

Family friend and Place New Farm lead agent Heath Williams helped the family furnish the house, drawing on his career of experience as an interior designer.

Williams has now been charged with selling the home, with the Branaghs on the hunt for their next renovation project, which they hope to find nearby.

Marlow and Michael Branagh with daughter Mia, at their home in Teneriffe, Brisbane. Picture: Supplied

“We’re not old enough yet; we’ve got more in us in terms of renovating,” Mr Branagh said.

“It’s a side passion for us. It’s something we really enjoy doing, and if we can find and take on another project like this, it’d be amazing.”

The Teneriffe property is being shown by appointment only due to the home’s notability and will be sold via an expression of interest campaign, which closes on December 6.

Williams believes it will attract a sophisticated buyer with taste.

“Someone who appreciates architecture,” he said.

“They’ve got to see themselves as the custodian of this property which is quite special to Brisbane from an architectural point.”

Williams said it is difficult to offer comparable sales given the property’s uniqueness.