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Behind the quaint facade, this Northcote home hides a surprising modernist-inspired renovation.
But it was the location that first attracted owners Myra Spencer and Jamie McGrane to the 1880s property a few years ago.
Nestled in heart of the coveted neighbourhood, it offered access to the famous inner-city haunts on High Street and Northcote Plaza, while still feeling like a quiet suburban neighbourhood.
‘We were initially looking for something bigger, however we really recognised the site’s potential. The sense of community was apparent straight away,’ Myra says.
They engaged architect Thom Mckenzie (formerly of Arlo) and BFC Built for a major renovation of the ‘incredibly run-down’ Victorian.
The earthy material palette was influenced by mid-century architecture, with the floor-to-ceiling timber joinery and ceiling beams serving as a nod to Myra’s grandparents’ house — an old Alistair Knox build in Donvale. Concrete floors are equipped with underfloor heating, paired with brick masonry.
Their redesign maximised every inch of the block; keeping only the heritage facade, front two bedrooms and the hallway.
An expansive open-plan living room and kitchen wraps around a flourishing courtyard garden, complete with an additional serene bedroom at the rear. There’s dedicated space for Jamie’s record players and DJ equipment, and quiet sunny spots for Myra to retreat to while remaining in view of the children.
‘The large sliding doors that open up to create an amazing indoor-outdoor space. And the joinery brings [so much] warmth to the house,’ Myra says of her favourite features.
‘We started the design process before falling pregnant, so although we knew we wanted to have a family we didn’t really know what that would look like or how it would so dramatically change the way we lived in a space.’
It’s since evolved into an idyllic family home, fitting of its friendly neighbourhood.
Having now listed the three-bedroom residence at for sale, Myra says they’ll miss the street and all the people who live on it most: ‘it feels like everyone is looking out for each other’.
3 Dally Street, Northcote, VIC 3070 is listed for sale with Robert Enes and Joel Catena from Nelson Alexander and will go to auction on Saturday November 8 at 11:30am.
