Why everyone is talking about this ‘dream home’ in Melbourne

A once modest storefront in Melbourne has been transformed into a chic and unique three-bedroom home with a study, offering a stunning blend of character and contemporary charm.

Australians are increasingly drawn to shopfront homes, captivated by their unique blend of historic charm and modern liveability.

These converted spaces offer characterful alternatives to the houses everyone is tired of, combining nostalgia with contemporary design.

As the housing market tightens, their rarity and potential for creative customization make them highly sought after.

Interior designer from Sydney Emma Blomveld from top company EB Studio told FEMAIL: ‘The quirkiness and uniqueness are often the draw for people to convert shop fronts into homes.

“It’s a fun conversation with the guests to imagine the stories and tales that could have happened at the store in a previous life.”

165 Gilbert Road in Preston, Victoria, has become the talk of the town with its new layout – and recently sold for $1,075,000.

Preston is a popular suburb nine kilometers north of Melbourne’s Central Business District, and features a mix of architectural styles, including Victorian and Edwardian homes, mid-century homes and modern townhouses.

165 Gilbert Road effortlessly from the inviting bedrooms and sleek bathrooms to an open-plan kitchen, dining and living space.

A striking feature is the exposed brick wall, which adds a rustic feel and runs like a visual thread throughout the property.

The airy layout flows effortlessly into an expansive, covered outdoor space, perfect for summer barbecues, backyard sunbathing or a lush garden retreat.

In the kitchen, Bosch appliances take the monochrome design to the next level, while black and white tiles continue throughout the ensuite and family bathroom, creating a cohesive aesthetic.

The three bedrooms each have built-in robes, providing plenty of storage space.

Adding to the appeal are the beautiful wooden floors, high ceilings, heating/cooling and a cleverly hidden laundry room.

As for the suburb’s surroundings, it is also home to Preston Market, which hosts multicultural food festivals, farmers’ markets and craft fairs.

The house is also a short walk from the bustling cafes and shops of Gilbert Road and Miller Street village.

Why are Australians attracted to converted shophouses?

Ms Blomfield revealed that retail properties are attractive because they are typically located in or around townships and cities.

“Depending on what the storefront looked like in the past, it may also contain some beautiful old architectural details that add charm to the home,” she said.

However, she warned of one particular beast that not enough buyers are thinking about tackling: the heritage listing problem.

‘Often older spaces, such as a shop front, can be Grade II listed, so you are working within the constraints of heritage regulations, which can be challenging or off-putting for some people.

‘But usually it’s those heritage items that add charm and life to the house.

‘Things like old mantelpieces become an extra shelf to display items or perhaps even mount a television above. An old counter could become a kitchen island. You will find plenty of inspiration in an old shop front.’

Another aspect is that such architectural highlights keep the charm of the street intact and give a nod to the former life of the city or suburb.

Ms Blomfield also noted that it is an environmentally conscious choice as you are not building something from scratch and contributing to the landfill.

When it comes to renovation, she revealed that you can do a lot if you stay within the boundaries of heritage regulations.

‘You never know what you’ll encounter once you’ve started. You may find beautiful old floorboards beneath layers of vinyl flooring that are just a stain and polish away from an incredible floor for your home.

“Or you might find an old pressed tin ceiling, hidden by additional plaster ceilings added over time.”

The professional was delighted with the possibilities of a shop premises.

‘It’s something special to be able to live in a storefront and give it a new life! You are preserving a part of Australian history and also adding to the beauty of the streetscape for others to enjoy.”