Front Porch Properties

Tell us a bit about your business?

Well, where to start…….i’m a licensed builder and I started Front Porch Properties 6 years ago now, back in 2015. I’ve always had a passion for classic and timeless, American inspired renovations and new builds and this passion has allowed me over the years, to create a niche market in and around Brisbane, my company motto is “creating modern homes with storybook charm”.

Front Porch Properties does take care of all aspects of the design of the build, starting with the working drawings right through to all the interior and exterior finishes, which I think has been an integral part of my success. I like to take a very handson approach for each project that I am involved in, starting with the initial design, right through to the final paint colours, flooring and even the door handles, walking my clients through the process to ensure that their vision does actually become their reality. When it comes time for move-in day, I always find it so rewarding to see my clients embrace their new family home.

Where are you based?

We are based in Brisbane, and I do plan to establish a new office and showroom in the not too distant future, but for now, I have recently signed a new lease on a commercial shed, which at this stage, is more of a storage facility for a new arm to the business, selling custom designed doors, which are now available via the Front Porch Properties website.

How would you best describe your style? I’ve always been a very classic girl in terms of my style. I draw a lot of inspiration from the more traditional styled homes such as Cape Cod, Modern Farmhouses, Classic Beach houses and rustic cottages. I am really drawn to the character that these types of homes exude.

How did you begin your career in design? Well, I’m by no means a designer, I would consider myself to have a good eye for design which carries through in my builds. I’m originally a classically trained pianist but I was always obsessed with construction, design and site elevations. Little did I know that I would take a huge leap of faith and pursue this dream a little further down the line. It all started with a very run down fixer-upper that I stumbled across in Woolloongabba back in 2013 which I totally transformed, it sold in its first week on the market. This project really showcased what I was capable of and it totally cemented my passion for residential building. The rest is history so they say.

Your best interior design tip?

I believe you should always be able to find the perfect balance between beauty and function. A piece should not just be chosen based upon beauty alone, it should be able to function well for your home and your family.

What designers inspire you?

People ask me that all the time, and I honestly don’t really have anyone specific that inspires me. I get told all the time that I have a similar style to Joanna Gaines and Studio Mcgee, and of course, I know who they are, but I don’t follow their every move. I guess I draw my inspiration through travels and my love for strong lines, be it a roofline, exterior weatherboard cladding or vertical grooves internally be it VJ panelling or wainscoting. For me I guess it all stems back to tradition and classic homes.

What else inspires you?

I love giving back, and I have a desire to leave a legacy behind. I really want to have an impact and be able to use my skills and my business to help others in need. I like to strive for more everyday, creating a difference as I go. This time last year I was in the Bahamas helping to rebuild homes after Hurricane Dorian swept through. We hired teams of local trades people and I was project managing some of the rebuild and repair work. This was a very rewarding experience for me to be able to put my skills to use in this way.

What do you love about your work?

I absolutely love what I do, I feel like I was born to be in this role and in this industry. I have huge variety each day between site, my office, tile stores, coffee shop meetings, clients and suppliers, there is literally never a dull moment and I thrive on the activity. I always get excited by transforming a run down house that needs some TLC and I absolutely love bringing something back to it’s full beautiful potential for it’s beloved family. I love huge new builds and large ‘raise & build under’ renovations, but I also love doing small renovations too, there’s just something about a quick little flip of a bathroom or a kitchen that’s always exciting and they often get forgotten about but they do also really matter.

Greatest budget buy or budget decorating tip? I would say customising flat packs, adding some creative flare to what is otherwise seen as a little standard and boring by most. With a little creative thought and a good lick of paint, you really can create a beautiful space.

Favourite travel destination?

South East Asia is definitely on top of my travel list, I love everything about it, the kind hearted people and their culture, the food and just the sheer beauty and diversity of the land.

@frontporchproperties www.frontporchproperties.com.au Photographer & Stylist - Louise Roche from @villastyling