Miss Midgley’s is the surprising and delightful revitalisation of one of Brisbane’s oldest heritage homesinto chic accommodation on James St. Originally constructed 160 years ago, this adaptive reuse project
is owned and designed by mother-daughter duo, Lisa and Isabella White. Both graduates from Masters of Architecture at the University of Queensland, they have gone to extraordinary lengths to preserve and celebrate the eccentricity of the building, while introducing contemporary functionality and aesthetics.
The project was named after Annie Midgley, an ambidextrous artist and teacher who opened a private school in the building in 1905, called Miss Midgley’s Educational Establishment. Drawing on Annie’s legacy, the project has a pointed focus on detailed and playful design while conserving some
astonishing heritage elements.
“We actually saved the building, I would say. It hadn’t had a coat of paint for over 70 years. It was really derelict,” said Lisa White. The architectural approach to the project’s colour and material palette references the famous Brisbane
stone – rusts, pinks and browns amplify the stone’s colours. Clever additions to the exterior of Miss Midgley’s gives the building a civic presence; the much talked about and admired corten front fence has
added to the eclectic suburb’s architectural diversity, while maintaining the stone as the hero feature. “The interiors were a response to the beautiful colours and historic aspect of the building. It’s not a
heritage interior, it’s very contemporary and very modern. But we think that it sits very comfortably with the heritage components. We do have an old wooden school desk in each apartment as a nod to Miss Midgley and the building’s history,” said Lisa White.
Built out of Brisbane’s famous ‘tuff’ stone, the two storey building has five self contained apartments. Each apartment is air-conditioned with a private outdoor space. Four of the apartments have two
bedrooms, one apartment has one bedroom; perfect for friends or families travelling together, or couples that want a larger space. The three apartments on the ground floor are pet friendly with outdoor
courtyards. If you’re booking for a function or event, the entire property can be booked out with a total of 18 beds. The pool is a unique and beautifully curated space that needs to be experienced. It features
a lush tropical garden and small sun deck. A fabulous fringed umbrella is provided in each apartment for your pool lounging needs. Extra amenities include a car park per apartment, bike storage and a petite
laundry room.
The Miss Midgley’s guest is someone who wants to be a part of New Farm life, not just visit it. Guests often stay for longer periods of time than the average hotel visit. It has been a popular spot for guests
who are visiting friends and family in Brisbane. The convenience of being pet -friendly, having an on grade car park and being able to cook your own meals from your apartment has been an asset for the
discerning guest.
Remarkably located in the heart of New Farm with a distinctly neighbourhood feel, Miss Midgley’s is but
a stroll to Brisbane’s most sought after retail, dining and entertainment precincts; James St, New Farm Park and Howard Smith Wharves. This boutique accommodation recognises and celebrates its own
sense of place in the fabric of this historic suburb.
sense of place in the fabric of this historic suburb.