34 River Avenue

Mighell QLD 4860

Start with a classic Queenslander from the 1950s with all its beautiful architectural features. Put it in a conveniently central location with dual access and stunning sunset views of Mt Bartle Frere. Make sure the land is at least 50% completely out of flood risk and build the house on the bit that is a 1% flood risk. Build it up 2.4 metres and the flood risk is gone. Locate it across the road from the river and rainforest, and on the cycle path minutes to town

A very good start, but now add a brand new light white kitchen with good pantry storage and open up the living space. Upgrade the bathroom, build in wardrobes, add air conditioning, and what about a full-width, 4-metre-wide covered rear patio? You can sit up here and watch the lightning crack over canefields, laugh and think, this is Australia.

If you want to take full advantage, create a little studio guest stay downstairs with its own retro bathroom. Still parking under here for two cars and a heap of workshop space.