A restored 160-year-old heritage home in Brisbane’s inner north is staking a claim as one of the city’s most sought-after stays, describing itself as the “prettiest stay in Brisbane”.
Miss Midgley’s is a boutique luxury hotel just three years old, set within a former colonial residence and transformed by owner Lisa White into a design-led retreat for discerning travellers and style enthusiasts. Located on James Street, close to a range of boutiques and restaurants, the hotel offers guests the privacy of a neighbourhood stay at the centre of Brisbane’s trendy heart.
The property’s story spans more than a century and a half. Originally known as Cairncross House, it was built as a private home before being converted into an orphanage by the Sisters of Mercy in the 1860s. Twenty years later, it was reclaimed as a private residence and renamed ‘St Clair’ by former Queensland Premier, Sir Arthur Hunter Palmer, who led the state from 1870 to 1874.
The building later served as a private hospital in the 1890s before being purchased by the Midgley family in 1903, where it was then turned into a private school by Annie Midgley. A renowned artist, teacher and vibrant personality, Annie left a creative legacy that is still reflected in the building’s identity today. More than a century after her school opened, the Whites reimagined the space as the luxury hotel it is today, naming it in her honour.
Today, guests can select from four two-bedroom apartments or a one-bedroom studio. Each suite includes a fully equipped kitchen, designer bathrooms and generous private outdoor space, laid out as a ‘home away from home’ for longer stays. The property can be booked as individual apartments or in its entirety, accommodating up to 18 guests for exclusive use.
At the centre of the hotel is a striking emerald pool, enveloped by tropical foliage and fringed umbrellas, creating a tranquil oasis ideal for spending the afternoon during the summer months. The hotel has quietly built a loyal following and is increasingly known among travellers seeking a private, design-forward alternative to traditional hotels.
Architectural details play a key role in the hotel’s appeal. A corten steel front fence has become a talking point in the neighbourhood, adding a contemporary civic presence while allowing the original stonework to remain the hero of the façade.
The design was led by Lisa White alongside her daughter, Isabella, with the mother-daughter duo styling the hotel together. Both are Masters of Architecture graduates, and their approach reflects a deep respect for the building’s heritage. The pair went to great lengths to preserve historical details and the eccentricities of the original structure, while careful to ensure guests enjoy access to modern functionality and aesthetics.
Miss Midgley’s is also positioning itself as one of Brisbane’s most sustainable boutique accommodations. The adaptive reuse of the heritage building itself is central to this approach, reducing the environmental impact associated with new construction.
Original windows and doors were restored to promote passive ventilation and limit reliance on air conditioning, while recycled plastic decking has been used for the pool deck and rear balconies. Tiles are made from 100 per cent recycled materials, and solar panels and low-energy appliances have been installed throughout the property.
As summer approaches, this once quietly known address appears could be set to lose its status as Brisbane’s best-kept secret.
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