NBA star sinks millions into historic Brisbane mansion

Aussie NBA star Aron Baynes has sunk a fortune into a historic mansion in Brisbane, with social media abuzz as work gets underway transforming the property close to Govt House.

REA listing picture of the historic Paddington home which now has DA approval for upgrades.

Aussie NBA star Aron Baynes has sunk a fortune into a historic mansion in Brisbane, with social media abuzz as work gets underway transforming the property close to Govt House.

Mr Baynes and wifeRachel Baynesbought the extraordinary Paddington property, which was built in 1864, for $4.5m last year, according to latest CoreLogic records.

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Aron Baynes spent $4.5m buying the historic Paddington property, with more to go into its transformation. Picture: Gregory Shamus/Getty Images.

he couple have spent the past year finetuning their plans for the site with social media abuzz over DA approvals coming through.

The process has been underway during a tumultuous time in his career when the former Boomer and Australian Olympian was out injured.

The five bedroom, five bathroom, three car space home sits in one of the most coveted spots in the inner city, with spectacular 270 degree views across Brisbane.

The stately home is close to Government House.

How it’s expected to look upon completion.

The challenge will be keeping its historic features while creating a modern home to fit the development vision of the 2.08m 35-year-old. The grand home is stately with reception and entertaining rooms, formal lounges and dining spaces, a grand staircase, library, and deep verandas, according to its realestate.com.au listing.

The view of the city skyline is one of the charms.

Instagram reactions came thick and fast as plans for the historic site were revealed, after the couple engaged award-winning Brisbane buildersGraya to construct their vision for them. Graya has also designed the project, with the site acquired by Jordan Navybox and Cohen Handler Qld, according to latest posts.

Old world charm with high ceilings in the home now.

Called The Governess, there’s been no word yet on when construction proper will kick off.

Graya’s Instagram feed blew up over the news that the company was “reimagining and redefining this iconic Paddington residence”.

Large spacious verandas and French doors for indoor-outdoor flow.

“Our focus will be on preserving and retaining the irreplaceable Queenslander facade and adding a sophisticated addition that will transform this into a truly unique and one of a kind residence,” it said.

“The majestic Governess Paddington will sit atop an expansive 1634m2 north-facing block and enjoy sweeping views of Brisbane City, once complete.”

The home was built in 1864.

The home was expected to emerge as “the traditional Queenslander reimagined”.

Up until mid-last year Mr Baynes was with the Toronto Raptors, after beginning his NBA career with the San Antonio Spurs alongside fellow Aussie Patty Mills. He’s also played for the Detroit Pistons, Boston Celtics and Phoenix Suns during his career.

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Originally published as NBA star sinks millions into historic Brisbane mansion