Lisa Marie Corso spent her early 20s writing about other peoples houses, but also followed a disciplined approach to saving for her own! As a solo first home buyer, Lisa put her research skills to task – describing Domain as her ‘real estate Tinder’ – before settling on this two bedroom, two bathroom apartment, in a mid-sized development in Essendon.

Lisa’s apartment is larger than most off-the-plan offerings, and offered a cost-effective investment she knew would be ready to move into upon completion. ‘I knew I had a limited budget, and wouldn’t be able to spend anything further on renovations, so it was important to find a place that was ready-to-go and needed no immediate touch-ups,’ she explains.   

 The 18-month wait between signing on the dotted line and moving in also allowed Lisa ample time to amass the world’s most comprehensive ‘glory box’, scouting online for furniture, and researching Australian designers and artists for artwork and objects to adorn the walls and shelves  – ensuring her first apartment would feel like home. ‘I have a rule that I will never buy or keep anything that doesn’t have a story, which is why when people come to my house for a one hour visit it turns into an eight-hour sojourn through my life,’ Lisa muses. ‘Don’t worry, I keep my guests hydrated and well fed’.  

Living within a small footprint has also emphasised for Lisa the value of owning less, but prioritising quality purchases where possible. A passion for cooking (who can remember her Nonna’s famous meatball recipe!?) meant investing in a great quality dining table – she opted for a circular four-seater from local furniture brand Grazia & Co. In addition to carefully selected furniture, some of Lisa’s most treasured possessions are art and handcrafted objects by local makers and creative friends, including Alic Oehr, Jeffrey Phillips, Evi O and Esther Stewart. 

Lisa’s space is an absolute reflection of her character – not a pencil out of place, perfectly styled, full of colour and a touch of the eclectic (see woven fish basket beside the bed, poodle head mug handle, etc!). It might have been purchased off the plan, but this perfect little pad really shows how personal details and thoughtful use of space can make a ‘ready-to-go’ apartment zing with personality. Especially when you have a personality as bright as Lisa’s!