$1.3 million home paves way for new housing market

THE heritage features fused with modern styling makes 37 Arthur St one of the most unique and sought-after homes in Toowoomba.

THE heritage features fused with modern styling makes 37 Arthur St one of the most unique and sought-after homes in Toowoomba.

Now, the suburban stunner has new home owners.

Highfields couple Brian and Kerry Carroll are the proud new owners, after placing a bid of $1.3 million at Saturday's auction.

With 300  inquiries in a matter of weeks and about 200 people at the auction, there was no doubt the home would be snapped up.

37 Arthur St has undergone major renovations. It is now on the market and will go to auction in November.

What makes the East Toowoomba home special is the blend of characteristics.

It started out as a small, rundown residence  but was soon transformed into a stunning modern house.

It was renovated and designed by Valdal Projects and is a mix of character and contemporary styling.

The cottage entrance transforms into an edgy new-age residence. The two levels are connected by a central void which allows light to stream through.

37 Arthur St has undergone major renovations. It is now on the market and will go to auction in November.

The indoor and outdoor blend seamlessly to produce a modern tone, yet remains casual and luxurious.

It is set to pave the way for contemporary heritage renovations in Toowoomba.

It was bought for $380,000 in September 2014 by Stuart and Emily Valdal before undergoing major renovations.

It won the 2016 Master Builders award for best renovation between $575,000 - $1 million in the Western Downs area.

New owner Mr Carroll said he was over the moon.

New owners Brian and Kerry Carroll. Picture: Kevin Farmer

"We have been looking for a while and struggled to find a house that ticked all our boxes, but this one ticked every box," he said.

"I am a country boy at heart and we were looking for a change and this is exactly what we wanted.

"The builders have done a great job - full credit to them.

"I think it's a new concept for Toowoomba.

"It is the first house we have seen like this and there will be plenty more to come."

Auctioneer Phil Parker as 37 Arthur St goes under the hammer. Picture: Kevin Farmer

There were seven registered bidders at the auction  and Mr Carroll said he desperately wanted to make sure he secured the home.

With bids starting at $1 million it was a battle from the start.

"I was very nervous because it is your possible future you are bidding on and that it is very important," he said.

"I was praying I would get the home, and we did."

Selling agent Ray White Toowoomba principal Andrew Carter said the end result was fantastic for both the sellers and buyers.

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"The sellers and buyers were both very happy which made for a successful afternoon," he said.

"There was a great crowd and we had a good number of people bidding as well," Mr Carter said.

He said there was no doubt Toowoomba would see more fusion of character and contemporary styling in renovated houses.

"There is quite clearly a place for this type of renovation in our town," he said.

"There are some people who want to completely renovate in character but there is also a place for this creative blend.

"This young builder has extraordinary talent and I think will bring big things going forward in Toowoomba."

Originally published as $1.3 million home paves way for new housing market