Before And After: Paddington Queenslander Transforms Into Lavish, Spanish-inspired ‘Arcos’

An old Paddington Queenslander has been transformed into a luxurious Spanish-inspired villa. ‘Arcos’ is the forever home of prominent builder Robert Gray and his wife Meghan. 


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It’s the first time in over six decades that this home has undergone a major makeover. Records indicated that it was sold in 2019 for around $1.5 million, the first time in 65 years that it was put on the market.  

11 Upper Cairns Terrace before renovation
The house at 11 Upper Cairns Terrace before the transformation (Photo credit: realestate.com.au)

Arcos’ was named Spanish for after the Spanish word for ‘arches.’ It is a grand, three-level house with three living rooms, five bedrooms, six bathrooms, parking for eight vehicles, and a spa big enough for 12 people, as well as a backyard patio with an outdoor lounge area. 

11 Upper Cairns Terrace after renovation
The newly transformed house. Photo credit: Graya

Perched on a 819-sqm lot at 11 Upper Cairns Terrace, the block is strategically located because aside from unparalleled CBD and district views, it’s right opposite Petrie Terrace State School and just a short walk down the hill to parks.

One of the distinct features of Arcos is its many curves and arches, something that’s become a bit of a trend again around the world in recent years. There are indeed a lot of arches of the aptly named Arcos, from the doorways and hallways down to the joinery and decor.

Arch in Arcos
Photo credit: Graya

Joe Adsett has breathed new life into the former Queenslander house by creating immersive arched tunnels made from concrete. 

The project is a collaboration between Graya and Joe Adsett Architects. Graya is known for building homes for well-known personalities, including Brisbane Broncos player Darius Boyd and British rapper Example.

Arcos
Photo credit: Graya 

Aside from being a home for the Grays, Arcos can also be hired for photoshoots and events. With its natural and warm colour palette, it doubles as a perfect backdrop for fashion shoots.

For more photos of Arcos, you can check out its Instagram page @arcos.villa.