Heritage Significance
Designed in 1880 by architect James Cowlishaw for Boyd Dunlop Morehead
A landmark address, 55 Boyd Street, known today as ‘Cintra’, carries a rich history woven into Brisbane’s early beginnings. It was built in 1880 as a southern extension wing of the c. 1863-64 Cintra House for prominent Brisbane businessman and Queensland Premier Boyd Dunlop Morehead. Designed by architect James Cowlishaw, 55 Boyd Street was first owned by Cowlishaw’s daughter Charlotte de Little, then requisitioned by the US Army during WWII as headquarters for Photo Unit 1 of the 832nd Signal Service Battalion. In the 1960s it served as a nursing home and private hospital, before being reclaimed as a private residence in 1989.
Perched on a leafy hilltop in Bowen Hills, Cintra is a residence that has lived, entertained, and evolved for more than a century – all while maintaining its grace, character, and unmistakable warmth. Set across a remarkable 2,112 sqm, this grand family estate is a rare sanctuary in the heart of Brisbane, offering sweeping views, remarkable tranquility, and an atmosphere that feels worlds away from its inner-city position.
The home was specifically designed to capture its extraordinary vantage point. From the front verandah and bay window, the river and Gateway Bridge unfold to the north-east, while the rear verandah delivers panoramic mountain views stretching from the south-west to the north across the horizon. A home that embraces light, air and elevation, every space feels connected to nature.
Despite its central location, ‘Cintra’ is unexpectedly peaceful. Boyd Street’s quiet cul-de-sac position, lush mature trees and flourishing perfumed gardens create a calming environment filled with native birdlife – kookaburras, parrots and the gentle chorus that makes the property feel like a country retreat rather than an inner-city address.
Across the sprawling layout are 5 bedrooms (each with its own study), 4 bathrooms, 3-car accommodation, plus a dedicated entertainment room, gallery and sunroom – ideal for families who value space, creativity and quiet corners to work or unwind. Solid internal rendered masonry walls provide exceptional soundproofing, while fully ducted air conditioning upstairs ensures year-round comfort.
The kitchen is beautifully appointed with granite benchtops, solid timber cabinetry, and premium Gaggenau and Miele appliances, while town gas services both the cooktop and the built-in BBQ on the rear verandah, making it an effortless entertainer. Additional conveniences include a downstairs kitchenette with underbench refrigeration, marble finishes in the main ensuite, and handcrafted security ironwork designed and manufactured by Heritage Ironwork.
Outdoors, the grounds offer an enchanting perfumed garden, blending established greenery and considered design. A 13m saltwater pool sits privately among the gardens, while an underground 10,000L water tank – fed by a 123m bore and roof runoff – services an automated irrigation system. A bronze fountain anchors the lower garden, visible from both the front verandah and the leisure room, where shuttered French doors open through a vine-covered archway for a picture-perfect outlook.
Dual access enhances ease of living, with the main entry along Boyd Street and an additional pedestrian access via Cintra Road.
A lifestyle of convenience surrounds the property: just 5 minutes on foot to Bowen Hills Station, Gasworks, the future Harris Farm, and Teneriffe; 10 minutes to James Street; and effortless access to leading Brisbane schools including BGS, BGGS, GT and All Hallows. The CBD, Airport Link and key 2032 Olympic venues are all within easy reach.
Grand in scale, rich in history and endlessly inviting, Cintra remains one of Brisbane’s rarest offerings – a home where character, beauty and modern liveability come together to create something truly special.
Property Features
To enquire or arrange an inspection, contact Ivo Kornel of SixtyFour Property directly via the form below.
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