beekeeper’s brisbane residence features open, light-filled spaces and an internal courtyard

australian architect paul butterworth delivers the honeyworks house, a practical yet luxurious residence for a brisbane beekeeper and his wife. designed on a budget, the structure features a burnished slab and plasterboard walls, chosen for their high function and low cost, complemented by elegant fixtures and fittings that elevate everyday living.

all photos by christopher frederick jones

“the home basically comprises two metal boxes, conjoined in an L-shape configuration,” butterworth explains while comparing the design to a warehouse conversion. offering plenty of room to accommodate the couple’s grandchildren and their honey-manufacturing business, the design revolves around one large multi-modular area. custom lighting, timber veneer cabinetry and luxurious stone products all combine to transform everyday living into a truly joyful experience.

the multi-purpose room features a queen-size bed concealed behind a wall of rich tasmanian blackwood, while other thoughtful features include a two-way mirror in the powder room, designed to showcase both the home’s entry and its central courtyard. in addition to the internal courtyard, the back garden also plays a vital role in this family home. plots in the back garden offers the couple the chance to grow a healthy array of fruit and vegetables. both externally and internally, the architect has deployed red bricks reminiscent of those found throughout the streetscape as a deliberate decision to help create both a sense of domesticity and connection with neighbouring homes.

designboom has received this project from our ‘DIY submissions‘ feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.