Domain Review Stonnington & Boroondara - September 27, 2023

Living the Mid-Century Dream

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This publication is published by Domain Holdings Australia Limited and Broadsheet Media Pty. Ltd. and is printed by IVE, 25-33 Fourth Avenue, Sunshine VIC 3020

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Broadsheet Editor: Jo Walker Assistant editor: Gitika Garg Design lead: Ben Siero

Design: The Company You Keep, Claire Bradbury Sub editors: Jasmine Crittenden, Miriam Kauppi, Adeline Teoh Writers: Daniela Frangos, Alice Freer, Ruby Harris, Alice Jeffery, Che-Marie Trigg, Shannon Valentine, Hollie Wornes Photographers: Parker Blain, Pete Dillon, Joseph Issa, Brook James, Warren Knower, Ashley Ludkin, Harry Moody, Kate Pascoe, Julia Sansone, Kate Shanasy, Kaede James Takamoto, Hilary Walker, Drew Wheeler

Cover credits: Courtney DeWitt and Corine Auzou shot by Hilary Walker

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come with stories and histories already attached – and still have a lot more living to do.

Jo Walker Broadsheet Editor

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Right now we talk a lot about “timeless” design as an antidote to fast-fashion homeware trends – something the proprietors of St Kilda’s Domestic Fantasies know a thing or two about. Based out of a 19th-century architectural icon, they deal in 20th-century furniture and decor for 21st-century homes and homemakers. Their wares

Property Listings

“St Kilda is filled with creative heads – and it always has been. Artists, musicians and writers have always gravitated to the area.”

Feature: Domestic Fantasies

Back Chat with Sheena Chundee & Deepa P Mani

Feature: Domestic Fantasies

Neighbourhoods: Windsor

SNACK BAR STREET STYLE

by Gitika Garg

Bourke Street al fresco bar Good Heavens has expanded, taking over the mid-century building next door. Now, with space for nearly 400 punters, it’s become the CBD’s biggest rooftop bar. Enjoy a dedicated Martini menu, smoked party pies and brews from 40 taps. Level 2, 79 Bourke Street, Melbourne / goodheavens.com.au

Bar Hiccup is South Melbourne’s new ’ 70 s-style speakeasy bar from the owners of The Pickle & the Patty next door. It’s designed to feel as if you’ve stepped into your grandparents’ living room. Pop in on Friday and Saturday nights for spins on the classic devilled egg, and cocktails named after different staff members’ cats. Level 1/181 Clarendon Street, South Melbourne / @barhiccup

Arbory Afloat – Melbourne’s seasonal floating bar – has been reimagined for another year. This time it’s drawing inspiration from Mexico, specifically the vibrant colours of Guadalajara, Tulum and Oaxaca. Head to the Yarra for Spicy Margarita carafes, a new pool area with double day beds, and a taco hut. 2 Flinders Walk, Melbourne / afloat.melbourne

South Yarra’s Yugen Dining has introduced a second, shorter and more accessible version of its popular omakase experience (which often sells out within minutes of reservations opening) at Yugen Tea Bar upstairs. Eight guests are served 16 to 18 courses prepared in front of them – with all the theatre of its predecessor. 605 Chapel Street, South Yarra / yugendining.com.au

Playful culinary poster store Food For Everyone – a Melbourne-based company funding meals for people in need – has launched a small line of embroidered caps on top of its regular art print output. Take your pick between “I love butter” and “I love bread” – depending on what side you lean towards, of course. foodforeveryone.com.au

Read the full story for each dot point: broadsheet.com.au/melbourne/series/snack-bar

Chapel Street, South Yarra

Name: Sastra Y Age: 20 Occupation: Studying Bachelor of games and interactivity with animation What are you wearing today? My trench coat and pants are from Uniqlo and the shirt’s from Zara. Shoes are Nike Blazers from Foot Locker. I felt like wearing these pieces today because I think they go well together. The sunnies help me see – they’re Gucci, a gift from the family. They gave them back in 2018 as a birthday gift. How would you describe your style? Casual, very casual for me at least. When I came here, I had no sense of style. I have somewhat of a sense of style now, so I guess I’ve been inspired by Australian fashion. Just here in South Yarra today to have a walk.

BEAUTIFUL SOUTH YARRA

South Yarra’s reputation as one of Melbourne’s ritziest suburbs has long been shaped by its highend shopping, restaurants and nightlife. Its desirable status is further underscored by top-notch schools, two train stations and beautiful parklands.

1 bed unit, $385k 2 bed unit, $644k 2 bed house, $1.35m

Photo: Kaede James Takamoto

Photo: Ashley Ludkin

Photo: Harry Moody

Thelatestin Melbourne foodnews

BACK CHAT

Sheena Chundee & Deepa P Mani

Words

Sheena Chundee and Deepa P Mani have both been dancing since the age of five. While Chundee trained full-time as a ballerina under a scholarship at the Royal Ballet School in London, Mani grew up in Chennai, India, learning bharatanatyam – a form of classical Indian dance that first found form in Tamil Nadu.

Now based in Melbourne, the two crossed paths after Mani read an interview with Chundee in a 2019 issue of Frankie magazine. Intrigued by seeing a South Asian ballet dancer – especially one posing in a tutu outside a pub – she reached out to connect and discovered they share more than just a love of dance.

Chundee, a Malvern East local, is the founder and director of Rebel Stepz, an arts organisation running programs and workshops with schools, community centres, corporate groups, and mental and physical health specialists since 2010. Having won a scholarship herself and understanding that for many people exposure and accessibility to the arts is limited, her mission is to

“take the elitism out of it”, she tells Broadsheet Mani, meanwhile, heads Chandralaya School of Dance in Bentleigh, teaching bharatanatyam as well as cross-cultural dance commissions and diversity workshops across city and regional schools.

Now the pair has come together with Touch, a new performance fusing the worlds of ballet and bharatanatyam. Showcasing at this year’s Melbourne Fringe Festival, it explores culture and connection through the “touch points between the two dancers”, Chundee explains.

The concept has been something like two years in the making, taking form over many conversations uncovering the similarities and differences between their artforms and journeys to making art.

“Both ballet and bharatanatyam are ageold classical artforms coming from the East and West and so they pack a lot of tradition,” Mani says. While the first operates under French terminology and the latter is based on Sanskrit, the basic hand and feet

postures are very alike, she explains. “If you start to peel back the onion … there are so many similarities.”

The differences became more apparent when the duo started working together in the studio. Physically, the challenge was to “come up with movements that represent both ballet and bharatanatyam for two dancers who are built differently and have been trained differently”, Chundee says. “Finding our own language and almost creating a new genre of dance is kind of what we’re doing.”

Touch explores the lives of two South Asian women who’ve taken different routes – one from the East and the other from the West – and draws parallels between their experiences. Accompanied by three musicians and a backup dancer, Mani and Chundee challenge bias and lean into weighty themes like respect, acceptance and prejudice.

The convergence of classical ballet and classical Indian dance is a rare one, Mani says, and “it sends a beautiful message of diversity”. And there’s opportunity for audiences

to reflect on their own cultural heritage, too. Mani talks a lot about the merits of intercultural collaboration and fostering genuine diversity on stage. “There is power in bringing cultures together,” she says. “You get better relationships and a stronger sense of identity when you interact with somebody because you start to respect and accept each other for who you are.”

Chundee and Mani are busy women –both run their own businesses – so rehearsal time is meticulously scheduled. Often it’s Zoom meetings and phone calls, but the pair recently came off the back of an intensive two-week stint choreographing and preparing in the studio. “We have a lot of fun,” Chundee says. “It’s rare for two artists to come together, have a good time and actually be on the same page.”

Touch premieres at Melbourne Fringe Festival from Oct 4–7 at the Sylvia Staehli Theatre, 150 Princes Street, Carlton North / rebelstepzarts.com/touch

by Gitika Garg · Photo by Warren Knower

THE FIT-OUT

Five Teapots That’ll Elevate Your Brew

By Alice Freer

MONO FILIO TEAPOT – $295 Designed by Tassilo von Grolman in 1983, the Filio is an iconic vessel blurring the lines between kitchenware and sculpture. The heat-resistant borosilicate glass bowl with internal mesh strainer cantilevers effortlessly via a delicate stainless-steel frame. This forever-piece is a graceful example of function-driven form. mondopiero.com.au

AZMAYA MARU TEAPOT – $125 This considered design is handmade with crow clay in Tokoname, Japan using traditional techniques – and it’s the perfect size for one large cup of brewed tea. The exterior and interior of the ceramic has a smooth tactility due to its unglazed finish – honouring the clay’s natural beauty. mujostore.com

Whether you need room for guests or more space in your home, our wall beds provide you with a stylish multi-purpose solution.

MUD TWO-CUP TEAPOT – $210 Mud Australia’s porcelain teapots are meticulously handmade in the label’s Sydney studio. This two-cup style is perfectly sized for the solo tea drinker and comes in four elegant colour options. Organic in form with a muted palette, this piece will complement a variety of interior styles. mudaustralia.com

FERM LIVING STILL TEAPOT – $149 Treasure a moment of tranquillity with the Still teapot. Designed by Ferm Living with simplicity and balance in mind, the combination of clear and coloured glass ensures this vessel will suit a range of kitchen styles. A fully transparent design showcases the brewing process and elevates the ritual of teamaking. stellargifting.com

TOM DIXON FORM TEAPOT – $485 Who better to create a vessel for the archetypal British drink than British designer Tom Dixon? Executed with Dixon’s usual quirky flair, this round teapot is made from polished stainless steel – a very “of-the-moment” finish that’s also destined to be timeless, bringing style to your morning or afternoon cup. livingedge.com.au

A confident

This is your time. You’re free to enjoy more of what you love – and to spend today, tomorrow and beyond exactly how you like.

Choosing to live at a Keyton community means choosing a life of genuine connection. Where people are brought together and kindness comes naturally. And where you’ll feel just as connected to your local neighbourhood and beyond, as you are to your neighbours

Menzies Malvern | 1306 High Street, Malvern

Classic Residences | 3 Brewer Road, Brighton East

The Brighton on Bay | 1 Asling Street, Brighton

Book a tour today!

1800 550 550 | keyton.com.au

HOME OF THE WEEK

Cleverly redefining family living

Words by Maria Harris

Light and space come together in perfect harmony at this luxurious, brand-new home in a quiet, leafy street of Surrey Hills.

Built by Bluestar Property Group, it delivers a fabulous, sun-drenched family lifestyle just around the corner from Whitehorse Road, Balwyn shops, library and cafes, and the 109 tram that has delivered generations of students to some of our best schools.

Surrey Hills might be one of our oldest suburbs, but its newest residence is pure 21st century. This home redefines family living with a mix of clever design, luxury, sophistication and the latest tech – from keyless entry to full smart-home automation, including CCTV, solar, Tesla battery and EV charger.

A commanding facade with a nod to modernist architecture leads to the impressive entry and rooms filled with natural light, all underpinned by finishes of grey marble and washed oak floors.

The scale is extraordinary. Beneath towering ceilings, every living space, from the ground-floor guest bedroom to the music room, kitchen and open-plan living room, is designed to capture the northern light.

The spectacular kitchen, with a Wolf oven, steam oven, warming drawer and induction cooktop, is both beautiful and practical. Wide marble benchtops provide excellent workspace and contrast with the dark timber cabinetry, which conceals the integrated Sub-Zero fridge-freezer and pantry. A hidden door opens to reveal a second kitchen with gas appliances and a butler’s pantry.

When not cooking or relaxing in front of the gas fireplace, open the wide glass sliding doors to the deck for the ultimate indooroutdoor living. With a pool and spa and borrowed vista of greenery and gum trees beyond the back fence, you could be forgiven for thinking you were in the country, not just 12 kilometres from the city.

Custom open-tread stairs in Victorian ash arrive at the generous north-facing rumpus room with a built-in workspace.

The main bedroom offers the luxury of a private retreat, while the dressing room with a storage island for jewellery takes its inspiration from Gucci. The opulence continues in the glamorous, hotel-style marble en suite. Three separately zoned north-facing

bedrooms with built-in robes and luxe en suites all have views over the garden.

More features include a three-car garage with internal entry, a laundry, sensor lighting and zoned heating and air-conditioning.

The 695-square-metre property is just metres from Whitehorse Road, zoned for Camberwell High School and Chatham Primary School and is an easy walk from Beckett Park, Maranoa Gardens and Fintona Girls’ School. Box Hill’s eateries and fresh food market are just a tram ride away.

Surrey Hills

8 Clyde Street

$5.8 million-$6.38 million

5 5 3

Expressions of interest: Close 5pm, October 3

Agent: Ray White, Helen Yan 0404 078 588

WHAT THE AGENT SAYS

“This contemporary, hightech masterpiece with every possible luxury and north-facing living is in a brilliant location, moments from Balwyn Village, quality schools and the tram.”

NEED TO KNOW

The property was last sold for $1.65 million in May 2020, and the highest recorded house price for Surrey Hills (past 12 months) was $5.07 million for 6 Payne Street in September.

RECENT SALES

$3.285 million

18 Albany Crescent, August $2.28 million

16 Thornton Avenue, August $3.55 million

2 Russell Street, September

Helen Yan Ray White

THE SECRET TO SUCCESS

Introducing Madison. A hand-tailored mattress made from luxurious European silks and German componentry. A successful day starts with a luxurious night.

FULFIL YOUR DECOR DESIRES at DOMESTIC FANTASIES

Housed inside St Kilda architectural icon The George, Courtney DeWitt and Corine Auzou’s showroom indulges mid-century and post-modern design devotees with retro luxe furniture, lighting and decor.

Words by Alice Jefery · Photos by Hilary Walker

Domestic Fantasies is the type of place where you can pick up a pair of Italian-made polished wood and brass cranes for the good room. Or bag yourself a set of International Klein Blue velveteen bedside drawers from the ’70s. If you’ve had your eye on a lipstick mirror in the style of Roger Lecal, the chances of taking one home are pretty high.

There’s chrome and lucite aplenty on the floor. And a smattering of (the good) vintage Ikea. Locals Courtney DeWitt and Corine Auzou are to thank for this St Kilda showroom: a boldly hued treasure trove of mid-century and post-modern design housed in a grand architectural icon that’s been around since the 1800s.

“Maximalist, Eurocentric and democratic” – this is how the duo describe their store. A space for customers to indulge deep decor desires and nerd out over Marcel Breuer chrome-framed armchairs, Eero Saarinen tulip chairs poised on pedestals, or perfectly restored Eames loungers.

Where the world of antiques was once stuffy and inaccessible to many, Instagram accounts and spaces like Domestic Fantasies have revived interest in the irony, irreverence and eclecticism that dominated the mid-to-late 20 th century. It’s something of a swift slap in the face to the homogenised grey minimalism that’s become the go-to in our modern age of fast furniture and flat packs.

DeWitt conceived the idea for Domestic Fantasies during her own home renovation. With a background in film and media, and a CV that includes tenures at Vice and trend forecasting agency WGSN, she has always had an interest in design. “That’s when I sort of went turbo. My kitchen is orange – which is the brand colour – I’ve got an orange Smeg fridge, a few Kartell pieces and a Guzzini trolley in there,” she says.

The bold citrus hue that accents both DeWitt’s home and the shop floor speaks to a renewed thirst for playful and idiosyncratic design that has driven the “grandmillennial” and ’70s revival interior trends. You might have noticed the resurgence of avocado green kitchens and dining tables laid with just the right amount of chintz. Rich browns, deep mustards and dreamy blues have become favourites in living rooms again. And bathroom renovations feel less clinical than ever as organic textures and earthy materials take over. Basically, the strategy is to decorate like a worldly grandma’s lounge room with a dose of self-aware style.

For Auzou, the magic in a space really comes from lighting; she cites a Venini Murano glass shade and Bocci lamp as two favourite pieces in her home. “I’m very into shapes that look organic or feel planetary. I like to honour craftsmanship and things that people just don’t do any more, especially with glass and mirrors or anything done by hand,” she says. “They bring me joy, but they also finish the room.”

DeWitt and Auzou happily moved into the home of St Kilda’s legendary post-punk scene, where show bills included local acts like Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds, Rowland S Howard and Dead Can Dance, plus interstate and overseas bands INXS, Midnight Oil, the Go-Betweens, Iggy Pop, the Cure, and Echo & the Bunnymen.

“St Kilda is filled with creative heads –and it always has been. Artists, musicians

The proprietors – both St Kilda locals – admit that deciding whether to sell or keep certain items is sometimes the hardest part of the job. “Nothing stays in here for very long. The showroom is always changing because some things are only on the floor for a couple of hours or a few days and then they’re gone,” DeWitt says.

The thrill of finding potentially one-off items is coupled with the agony of parting with pieces the duo might never see again. And while there are some things they become emotionally attached to (and sometimes purchase for themselves), there is trust in the process that something equally good or better is just around the corner. “There are things that we buy as store fixtures that we end up selling because people will keep coming back and asking, ‘Can I have it?’ until they wear us down,” DeWitt says.

For a more hands-on service, the Domestic Fantasies team offers custom sourcing, home visits and interior styling services outside of the showroom. They draw on a network of collectors, as well as visits to estate sales and auctions, to find envy-inducing pieces. Most of the stock is hunted and gathered within Australia, but some specialist items (including lighting) are sourced overseas.

“People really like when pieces have their own history and story,” Auzou says. “Depending on where [an item] comes from, sometimes we know a bit of the background and the story of the people who previously owned it.”

While some pieces arrive in mint condition, others need a little bit of love put in before they go on sale. “Restoration projects depend on what the piece calls for,” Auzou explains. “Sometimes we’re looking at glass replacements, metal polishing, reupholstering or rebuilding using salvaged parts. Our passionate collaborator [ and chandelier specialist] David Young has a wealth of knowledge and is primarily responsible for restoring and hanging many of our truly stunning Italian and German lighting pieces.”

In April, the lease at The George became available as part of Renew Australia’s Fitzroy Street project. This is when Auzou came on board as a partner, bringing her background in visual arts, retail and fashion-buying to the team.

First built in 1857, the space on Fitzroy Street is part Renaissance Revival style, part classical grandeur. Originally named the Terminus Hotel, the heritage site has also been known as The Seaview Hotel, which came to house iconic music venue Crystal Ballroom.

and writers have always gravitated to the area,” DeWitt says. “The neighbourhood was also the original hub for vintage furniture in Melbourne and people were really happy when we opened. They had a lot of nostalgia for shops that used to be in the area.”

Enzo, the showroom’s resident Italian greyhound, keeps an eye on things. His current preferred perch is a sunny spot on a blue velvet modular sofa. “He’s a St Kilda icon,” DeWitt laughs.

Quality is something that marks all these pieces of furniture and home decor. And while design purists wouldn’t be caught mixing the two, Auzou has no problem with a high-low blend of old and new. “You can have a few killer pieces and then you can mix in other things as well. It’s what brings personality to a space,” she says. This cherry-picked approach takes time, but it’s worth it in the long run. “It’s a process. We like people to live with the things they’ve got and slowly build up their space to make sure they really love it.”

St Kilda is filled with creative heads – and it always has been. Artists, musicians and writers have always gravitated to the area.

The neighbourhood was also the original hub for vintage furniture in Melbourne and people were really happy when we opened.

WINDOW SHOPPING

Windsor

By Ruby Harris

It may have a history of being Prahran’s lesser-known younger sibling, but Windsor is beginning to make a mark of its own. The area is home to an eclectic mix of pubs, restaurants, cafes and shops – and can well and truly compete with its neighbouring suburbs of Prahran and St Kilda.

On a lazy morning, Windsor Deli is an ideal spot to start the day. Surrounded by suburban houses on the corner of Hornby and James streets, it’s easy to miss – which is exactly what makes it such a local favourite. Stop in for coffee by Niccolo, and a rotating array of house-made pastries and other treats. Grab a table inside for a more substantial breakfast, or take your coffee and snack to go – there’s a reserve across the road that makes an ideal spot to take in the morning.

Over the past few years, Windsor has become home to a huge range of designer stores and smaller boutiques. Elka Collective on Chapel Street is a go-to for transeasonal basics (and great for building a capsule wardrobe). Jewellery and lifestyle house Lucy Folk also has an outpost in the suburb, after a 2017 pop-up became a permanent fixture. For something offbeat, visit Shag – a sure-fire way to feel like you’ve stepped into your grandmother’s closet (if your grandmother’s closet was a vintage fashion treasure-trove). If you need a break between shops, you can’t go wrong with a quick stop at Casa Nata for a Portuguese custard tart.

But it’s after dark when Windsor really lights up, and anyone looking for dinner is spoilt for choice. Freddy’s is the top pick for pizza and good drinks. Just down the road, there’s Hawker Hall, Tokyo Tina and newcomer Henrietta, an upmarket charcoal chicken joint with a $2 5 million fit-out. After dinner, Pidapipo has you covered for dessert. Or keep the night going via a drink at Young Hearts – with a seasonal drinks list and rotating chef residencies, no two visits are the same.

NEED TO KNOW

Windsor, once overshadowed by Prahran and

has blossomed as a

haven. Wander down its narrow streets and you’ll find a mix of ’70s apartments, historic terraces and new developments. It’s an ideal locale for those craving proximity to the buzz without being engulfed by it.

Average Age 34

Median Weekly income $2,022

Owner 38% Family 25%

Renter 62% Single 75%

Clockwise from top: Windsor Deli, photo Joseph Issa; Elka Collective, photo Drew Wheeler; Henrietta, photo Julia Sansone; Casa Nata, photo Kate Shanasy

South Yarra,

foodie

WHAT THE AGENT SAYS

“Chapel Street’s thriving bars and restaurants attract a diverse mix of residents and visitors.

New developments and heritage homes adorn tranquil side streets, creating a vibrant urban tapestry.”

MEDIAN HOUSE PRICES

Median price houses $1.475m

Median price units $520,000

Distance from CBD 4km

Clockwise from top: Young Hearts, photo Pete Dillon; Pidapipo, photo Brook James; Tokyo Tina, photo courtesy venue; Chapel Street, photo Kate Pascoe

Harley Toyle Buxton

Hover your camera over the code to see Domain listings in Windsor

Situated on the edge of the Timor Sea, Darwin is closer to the Indonesian capital of Jakarta than it is Canberra. Its diverse cultures, vibrant food and arts scenes, and tropical climate make it one of Australia’s most compelling travel destinations.

For half the year, the dry season brings pristine sunny days and balmy nights. During this time, the town is abuzz with outdoor activities and alfresco dining. From April to November, the open-air Deckchair Cinema sets up by the harbour, screening an eclectic range of Australian and foreign flms. In August, the annual Darwin Festival descends on the city, showcasing the best

Darwin, NT

by Hollie Wornes

local music, art, entertainment and food. For the other half of the year, there’s rain – and a lot of it. It’s hot, but travellers who can tolerate the humidity are in for a real treat. The sticky air smells of frangipani and seasonal fruits; Litchfeld National Park’s raging waterfalls are at their best; and as any local will tell you, the sunsets during this time are world-class. The Sailing Club, a no-frills west-facing diner, is one of the best spots to catch the evening show (and it sells some of the frostiest beers in town).

Contrary to popular belief, most of Darwin stays open year-round, including one of its national treasures – Parap Village Markets, loved by locals and

visitors since the ’80s. Go hungry, because it ofers a dizzying array of food and culture, including some of the Northern Territory’s best laksas.

The laid-back town is rich in art and history, so there are plenty of activities for indoor folk. Take a workshop led by First Nations people at the Laundry Gallery, located in a chicly reimagined ’70s laundromat, or explore a Cyclone Tracy exhibit at the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory.

For a quick bite to eat, there are plenty of easy options around Mitchell Street. Try Ella by Minoli, a standout Sri Lankan diner tucked down a laneway. Here, a former Masterchef contestant is serving unforgettable favours.

Photo courtesy

LUXURY

Words by Joanne Brookfield & Maria Harris

Deepdene

16 May Street

$6.5 million-$7.15 million

5 6 6

Expressions of interest: Close 5pm, October 10

Agent: Marshall White, William Chen 0438 383 336

With a French provincial facade and three levels of lavish living within – including a wrought-iron staircase, high and ornate ceilings, and brass chandeliers throughout – this is like a suburban palace. There’s a wealth of marble in the kitchen and bathrooms, while the butler’s pantry is larger than a standard-sized bedroom. Other luxuries include a lift, indoor pool (complete with a mosaic mural), sauna, gym, home theatre, two home offices and a massive six-car garage.

Kew

32 Rowland Street

$6.4 million-$6.8 million

7 4 5

Expressions of interest: Close 4pm, October 14

Agent: RT Edgar, Annabelle Feng 0409 384 144

Large families and entertainers are sure to embrace this 1911 period gem in a leafy avenue in Kew’s prestigious Sackville Ward. Beyond the immaculate garden, this gracious home is a standout with stunning formal and informal living zones, period embellishments, an immaculate kitchen and a family domain that lets the party spill outside. The versatile floor plan offers two main bedrooms downstairs, with four more upstairs. A one-bedroom studio has an en suite and kitchen.

Camberwell

26 Sunnyside Avenue

$8.8 million-$9.68 million

5 5 3

Private sale

Agent: Garvey & Co, Adam Garvey 0411 190 375

When there’s a massive crystal chandelier dangling from the elliptical hand-crafted leadlight cupola above the helical staircase, you know you’re talking next-level luxury. Every detail here is imported, bespoke or exclusive. This French provincial-inspired mansion has been “expertly constructed by renowned … builder Oliva Homes”, the agent says. There’s an office, a home theatre, and an al fresco pavilion by the fully automated pool, all with a guilt-free 6-star energy rating.

Balwyn

20 Clayton Road

$5.3 million-$5.7 million

5 5 2

Expressions of interest: Close 5pm, October 3

Agent: Marshall White, Elsa Li 0477 888 099

Families love the Balwyn High School zone. This luxurious French provincial-style home with five bedrooms (each with a walk-in wardrobe and en suite), formal and informal living, study, theatre and views to the city is likely to be a family favourite. A dramatic sweeping staircase and magnificent herringbone parquetry floors introduce palatially proportioned opulence. The main bedroom has a private lounge, grand dressing room and a lavish hotel-style en suite.

OPEN FOR INSPECTION

Words by Joanne Brookfield, Peter Semple & Shae Wiedermann

LAST WEEKEND

Clearance Rate of 63%*

Source: Domain Group

WHAT OUR EXPERT SAYS

Dr Nicola Powell Chief of research & economics

“New property listings have risen for two months, marking the most significant annual increase in a year. With the earlier arrival of spring, new listings are expected to continue to flourish as pent-up supply comes into play.”

For the latest property insights go to domain.com.au/research

HIGHEST VALUE

$3.68 million

Camberwell

24 Fairfield Avenue

Sold by Jellis Craig*

*As reported on September 16, 2023

Balwyn North 1a Oravel Street

$1.7 million-$1.8 million

4 3 1

Private sale

Agent: Fletchers, Jason Salan 0417 664 431

Close to Greythorn Village, Boroondara Park

Primary School and Koonung Creek Reserve, this new townhouse features a dining-family room, a kitchen with stone benchtops, two en suite bathrooms, a powder room and a third bathroom with a free-standing bath. Other features include high ceilings, timber floors, a gas log fire, double-glazing and splitsystem air-conditioners in every room.

Balwyn 2/34 Jurang Street

$2.15 million-$2.35 million

4 3 2

Auction: 2pm, October 7

Agent: VICPROP Manningham, Jin Ling 0457 777 712

Classy and comfortable, this Balwyn townhouse offers lowmaintenance living in luxury. The finishes include Turkish limestone, brushed brass tapware, European oak floors and curved walls. The residence has a lift, a rainwater tank and a secure basement garage with a workshop nook. It comes with an east-facing decked courtyard; however, if more verdant surroundings are desired, Maranoa Botanic Gardens and Balwyn Park are only a short walk away.

Canterbury 85a Highfield Road

$1.38 million-$1.5 million

3 2 2

Auction: 1pm, October 7 Agent: Heavyside, Tim Heavyside 0403 020 404

This light and low-maintenance townhouse is a perfect fit for families wanting to secure a spot in this elite locale. A sun-filled living room backs onto a private courtyard. The kitchen has access to the double garage, laundry and powder room, and the three bedrooms upstairs all contain built-in wardrobes. It is within walking distance of Canterbury Station and Maling Road.

Malvern 104/6 Chilcote Avenue

$2.8 million-$3 million

3 2 2

Private sale

Agent: Thomson, John Chartres 0418 321 951

Metres from High Street, Armadale, and Glenferrie Road, Malvern, is where you’ll find boutique development Chilcote House. This new apartment has the features of a house, including a separate laundry, a study, and lift access to basement parking. The Carrara marble kitchen has a butler’s pantry and a coffee station, so you can kick back and enjoy a latte on the private terrace.

Hawthorn East

31 Wiseman Street

$2.5 million-$2.75 million

5 2 2

Auction: 11am, October 7

Agent: Hodges, Oren Flamm 0407 750 438

A regular on Nine’s Today and The Chatroom, psychologist Sandy Rea is also the vendor of this charming period home. Original details from the 1940s add character, while three separate living spaces (and a front bedroom/ study that could be a fourth) allow a family to spread out. The solar-heated saltwater swimming pool is a highlight.

Balwyn

14 Kinsale Crescent

$3.3 million

5 4 2

Private sale

Agent: Fletchers, Jack Peng 0404 934 497

Recently renovated yet with aspects of its traditional charm, this residence oozes opulence from every angle. A deluxe kitchen with marble benches and tiled splashbacks overlooks formal and family living and dining areas. The rear deck offers an all-weather al fresco zone and leads down to an extensive backyard with copious space for kids and pets.

Hawthorn 204/1a Yarra Street

$1.2 million-$1.32 million

2 2 2

Expressions of interest: Close 5pm, October 10

Agent: Marshall White, Davide Lettieri 0414 018 707

Close to amenities, Yarra River trails, trains, trams and schools and opposite parkland, this apartment features parquetry floors, a gas fireplace, and a large covered terrace with a built-in barbecue. A full-length terrace extends the open-plan living-dining area.

Directly opposite Albert Park Lake in this premium location enjoy expansive views from this luxurious 8th floor sub penthouse close to Aquatic Centre, golf course, grand prix track, Clarendon Street shops and South Melbourne Market.

Jock Langley 0419 530 008

Michael King 0415 505 505

Hover your camera over the code to view live listings on domain.com.au

10 Suffolk Road, Surrey Hills

5 A 3 B 2 C

Superb Edwardian residence blending period attributes with contemporary living & entertaining options, pool and pavilion/5th bedroom. Featuring an arched hallway, sitting & dining rooms, study and living/media room. A 2-storey extension includes an expansive family domain, stylish kitchen, bathroom and laundry. Upstairs has a study area, bathroom, 4 bedrooms, main/WIR/ensuite/balcony.

marshallwhite.com.au

Auction

Saturday 14th October at 11.30am

Viewing

Thursday 12.30-1pm & Saturday 9-9.30am

Contact James Tostevin 0417 003 333

Robert Le 0409 877 851

BRIGHTON 15 Grantham Court

DECO-INSPIRED ELEGANCE, SIZE, AND CLASS

Nestled behind a high fence, paved courtyard, and sheltered verandah, this character-filled Art Deco home radiates a tangible sense of sanctuary and seclusion. As you step inside, a spacious hallway leads to a generous living and dining room, beautifully highlighted by intricate decorative ceilings and an authentic ornamental fireplace. The modern kitchen sparkles with stone countertops and premium appliances, including a Bosch oven and gas cooktop, and a Smeg dishwasher. Beyond the kitchen, a landscaped rear courtyard is perfect for garden enthusiasts to potter around.

belleproperty.com/222P449567

G01/74 Well Street, Brighton