Classic Queenslander with high tech touches

BUYER interest in 25 Henry St, Kalinga is growing rapidly as homes in this exclusive pocket are rarely available to the market. Owners Leanne and Mark McLaughlin spent almost three years enhancing their Hamptons-inspired Queenslander into an ultra-modern yet charming home ideal for themselves and their two teenage children. “The house itself is very high-tech,” Ms McLaughlin said. “The list of what we’ve done to it is endless. Everything from computer upgrades to redoing the landscaping.” The iPad-controlled property includes keyless entry, surround sound speakers, a wine cellar, and full C-Bus automation. Convenience hasn’t compromised traditional character features including polished timber floors, VJ walls and stained glass windows. From the second floor is an elevated aspect of popular Kalinga Park.

Downstairs is an open-plan area which expands when glass doors slide back to reveal a north-facing outdoor kitchen. “We have great parties and can comfortably fit 30 people here,” Ms McLaughlin said. “Downstairs is lovely because you still get the vista but you can sit on the outdoor lounges and watch the birds come in for a feed. “You just don’t get that anywhere else that is 5km from the city. This is the best group of neighbours and the most we’ve felt at home in a community ever,” she said. "Everyone talks to everyone and it’s just lovely this little pocket.”

Ray White Ascot marketing agent Janelle McKenna agreed the position of the five-bedroom, three-bathroom house was a wonderful asset. “You can rarely buy properties in this area because they are just so tightly held,” Ms McKenna said. “The park is also heritage-listed so nothing can be built where it is behind the home.” Kalinga only reclaimed its identity as a suburb in 2015, after the State Government altered Wooloowin’s boundary on Brisbane’s northside. Many locals have lived in the area for years, passing down property from generation to generation. Outside demand for Kalinga real estate is overwhelming due to its close proximity to the CBD, large volume of high-end homes, multiple recreational facilities, and reputable community spirit. Ms McKenna and her Ray White Ascot co-agent Lisa Pearse-Sargeant will sell 25 Henry St, Kalinga on or before its auction on Saturday, June 3 at 11am.