Open House: 423 Napier Street, Fitzroy

Straddled between the hip inner-city suburbs of Fitzroy and Collingwood at 423 Napier Street is an 1880s farriers building that’s secretly been honoured with the Fender Katsalidis touch. The architecture firm is best known for their path-breaking work on Hobart’s MONA – a destination in its own right for its idiosyncratic art collections – so to have Fender Katsalidis work on your residence-to-be means you’ll have earned bragging points for years to come. If that isn’t reason enough to move into this exclusive address, then perhaps its design-forward interior will coax you.

AGENT Jellis Craig | ARCHITECT Fender Katsalidis

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For us, what stands out the most about this Fitzroy home is the design approach of pairing caramel timber against black wrought iron and glass, evoking a ‘mid-century meets modern’ vibe. The living room and dining area, flanked by wrought iron posts, receives the bulk of northern light through not one but four windows and a skylight. The small library in the corner is separated from the communal areas by a circular partition, affording privacy in a busy family setting. The marble-topped kitchen, also a part of the living and dining area, comes equipped with superior European appliances and a classic 1961 Gaggia; sitting handsomely on the counter, the coffee machine lends the room old-school glam and perfectly matches with the timber cabinetry.

A gorgeous staircase, dressed in dark walnut and interspersed by black balusters in clean lines, leads to four bedrooms on the second floor. Escape into your private oasis (otherwise known as the master bedroom) that is fitted with an ensuite bathroom and luxurious spa, resembling a modern-day hammam with teal mosaic tiles. The rest of the bedrooms also exude the same sense of space and natural lighting that is so prominent throughout the entire house.

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One of the best things about living in Melbourne’s most coveted suburb is the close proximity to terrific shopping, bars, cafes and restaurants. Located within a radius of three-minute strolls from the doorstep are Lune Croissanterie, arguably Melbourne’s best source for baked goods; Yong Green Food, a delicious vegan joint that has amassed a cult following; and Fitzroy Swimming Pool for when you’ve tired (only momentarily, of course) from all the excellent feasting.

Needless to say, the lucky residents of this Fitzroy home will be spoiled for choice in this suburb… especially when they also have another exciting suburb next door to explore.