Step back in time to 1908, when Corinda was home to Brisbane’s wealthiest residents. At the heart of this history stands Weemalla, a meticulously designed residence that still embodies the elegance and craftsmanship of the era.
Built between 1908 and 1909, this heritage-listed home at 62 Ruthven Street remains largely unchanged, offering a direct link to the past in one of the city’s historically affluent suburbs. Designed by renowned architect Robin Dods, the residence reflects the distinctive approach of his work, blending functional Queensland housing with British Arts and Crafts influences.
The Evolution of Corinda and Its Elite Residents
During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Corinda became a sought-after location for Brisbane’s upper class. The suburb’s elevated position and proximity to the river provided relief from the city’s noise and pollution, attracting successful business figures, pastoralists, and merchants. Among them was Robert Moore Steele, the first owner of Weemalla and Queensland’s manager for the Victoria Insurance Company Ltd.
Before settling in Corinda, Steele and his family lived in other middle-class suburbs like Toowong and Indooroopilly. In 1908, he acquired the land for Weemalla, commissioning Hall & Dods to design a home suitable for his growing family. The result was a low-set timber residence with generous verandahs and a carefully considered layout, characteristic of Dods’ work.
Architectural Significance and Design Excellence
Weemalla is a prime example of Robin Dods’ residential designs, which prioritised climate-responsive features and craftsmanship. His work drew inspiration from the British Arts and Crafts movement, favouring solid structures with wide porches, steeply pitched roofs, and well-proportioned forms. The home’s design incorporated natural ventilation, deep verandahs, and large windows to combat Brisbane’s subtropical heat.
The front facade, though appearing symmetrical, reveals a thoughtful asymmetry upon closer inspection. A central piazza and an entry hall with bay windows enhance airflow and natural light, while interior spaces balance formal and informal living areas. The home’s original materials and design choices were selected to develop a sense of permanence, allowing it to age gracefully over time.
Changes and Preservation Over the Years
Despite its long history, Weemalla has undergone only minor modifications since its construction. Ownership remained within the Steele family for decades before the house was sold in 1963. Subsequent owners preserved its key architectural elements, with changes including the enclosure of some verandahs, the addition of a carport, and the construction of a swimming pool. An extension in 1964, designed by Brisbane architects Job & Froud, introduced modernist influences while respecting the home’s original structure.
The property remains a private residence, a rare example of early 20th-century Brisbane architecture that has withstood the test of time. The Queensland Heritage Council recognises Weemalla’s historical and architectural importance, highlighting its role in shaping the region’s architectural identity.
Weemalla’s Place in Corinda’s History
Weemalla’s continued existence provides insight into the social and economic landscape of Brisbane in the early 1900s. It serves as a reminder of Corinda’s transformation from a sparsely populated suburb into a desirable location for the city’s elite. The home’s preservation allows locals and architecture enthusiasts to appreciate a period when craftsmanship and design were integral to residential construction.
While the modern Corinda landscape has changed significantly, Weemalla remains a visual and historical anchor to a bygone era. It tells the story of a suburb once favoured by Brisbane’s wealthiest residents and an architect whose influence helped shape Queensland’s built environment.
Originally Published 18-April-2018
Updated 25-February-2025
