Within a first-class Emerald Hill position on the outer circle of the St Vincent Gardens precinct, this landmark c1888 Victorian tells a story of unique heritage and state-of-the-art reinvention. One of the last remaining freestanding timber residences of its era in Melbourne, it has been revived and meticulously transformed by Rebecca Naughtin Architecture, transforming a once-modest cottage into a sun-filled contemporary residence of exceptional style.
Featured on ABC's Restoration Australia, the design brings light and life to every space, unfolding beyond the idyllic façade and tessellated verandah, with 3.4m-high ceilings, steel-framed transparency, and an original staircase that nods to the home's beauty. Brazilian Blue Roma quartzite, herringbone oak and polished concrete set the material palette, uniting form and warmth across expansive living and dining areas.
The Stuv wood-burning fireplace forms the centrepiece within a custom oak-veneer media wall, complemented by quartzite detailing that flows through to the adjoining kitchen with premium Miele appliances and a separate butler's pantry. Continuing the indoor-outdoor flow, an integrated BBQ, lush low-maintenance greenery, and superb privacy create an inviting setting for year-round entertaining, enhanced by brilliant sunlight, secure gated ROW access, and an exterior profile of copper cladding and recycled red brick.
Upstairs, the main suite enjoys balcony seclusion, full-height robes, and a marble-detailed en-suite, alongside two additional custom-fitted bedrooms and a sky-lit family bathroom. On the ground floor, a guest bedroom with its original open fireplace, relocated from the upper level during the renovations, offers versatility as a home office or sitting room. Complete with hydronic heating, including ground-floor slab, panels upstairs and heated towel rails, reverse-cycle heating and cooling systems, motorised blinds in the living domain, double glazing, CCTV, European laundry, alarm, solar power, extensive storage including an attic, 100% wool carpet, keyless entry, and potential off-street parking via ROW, it delivers absolute luxury moments from Albert Park Lake, South Melbourne Market, leading schools, and MSAC.
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