A once-humble Melbourne shopfront has been transformed into a chic and unique three-bedroom home with a study, offering a stunning mix of character and contemporary charm.
Australians are increasingly drawn to shopfront homes, captivated by their unique blend of historical charm and modern liveability.
These converted spaces offer character-filled alternatives to cookie-cutter housing everyone is tired of, combining nostalgia with contemporary design.
As the housing market tightens, their rarity and potential for creative customisation make them highly sought-after.
Sydney interior designer Emma Blomfield from top firm EB Studio told FEMAIL: 'The quirk and uniqueness is often the drawcard for people to convert shopfronts into homes.
'It's a fun talking point with guests to imagine the stories and tales that could have once happened in the shop in its previous life.'
165 Gilbert Road in Preston, Victoria, has become the talk of the town with its novel layout - and it recently sold for $1,075,000.
Preston is a popular suburb located nine kilometers north of Melbourne's Central Business District - and it boasts a blend of architectural styles, including Victorian and Edwardian homes, mid-century houses, and contemporary townhouses.
A once-humble Melbourne shopfront has been transformed into a chic and unique three-bedroom home with a study, offering a stunning mix of character and contemporary charm.
Australians are increasingly drawn to shopfront homes, captivated by their unique blend of historical charm and modern liveability.
The airy layout of 165 Gilbert Road flows effortlessly into a sprawling decked alfresco area, perfect for summer BBQs, backyard tanning, or a lush garden retreat.
165 Gilbert Road effortlessly from the welcoming bedrooms and sleek bathrooms to an open-plan kitchen, dining, and living space.
A standout feature is the exposed brick wall, which adds a rustic edge and runs as a visual thread throughout the property.
The airy layout flows effortlessly into a sprawling decked alfresco area, perfect for summer BBQs, backyard tanning, or a lush garden retreat.
In the kitchen, Bosch appliances elevate the monochrome design, while black-and-white tiling continues into the ensuite and family bathroom, creating a cohesive aesthetic.
Meanwhile, the three bedrooms each feature built-in robes, offering plenty of storage space.
Adding to the appeal are the property's gorgeous timber floors, soaring ceilings, heating/cooling, and a cleverly concealed laundry.
In terms of surrounding the suburb, it is also home to Preston Market which hosts multicultural food festivals, farmers' markets, and craft fairs.
The home is also a short stroll to the buzzing cafes and shops of Gilbert Road and Miller Street village.
165 Gilbert Road in Preston, Victoria, has become the talk of the town with its novel layout
165 Gilbert Road in Preston, Victoria, has become the talk of the town with its novel layout
The three bedrooms each feature built-in robes, offering plenty of storage space
A standout feature is the exposed brick wall, which adds a rustic edge and runs as a visual thread throughout the property
Why are Australians drawn to converted shopfront homes?
Ms Blomfield revealed that shopfront homes are appealing because they're typically located in or around townships and cities.
'Depending on what the shopfront used to be it could also have some beautiful old architectural details that add charm to the home,' she said.
However, she warned about one specific beast not enough buyers think about tackling: the heritage-listed issue.
'Often older spaces like a shopfront could be heritage-listed so you're working within the constraints of heritage rules which can be challenging or off putting to some people.
'But, usually those heritage items are the things that add charm and life to the home.
'Things like old fireplace mantels become an additional shelf to display things or perhaps even mount a television above. An old shop counter could become a kitchen island. There's plenty of inspiration in an old storefront.'
Another aspect is that such architectural marvels keep the charm of the street intact and gives a nod to the past life of the town or suburb.
Interior designer Emma Blomfield dished on the allure of shopfront homes
Ms Blomfield revealed that shopfront homes are appealing because they're typically located in or around townships and cities.
Ms Blomfield also made note of it being an environmentally conscious choice as you aren't building something entirely from scratch and contributing to landfill.
In terms of renovating, she revealed there was much you could do while staying within the confines of heritage rules.
'You never know what you'll uncover once you get started, too. You might find beautiful old floorboards under layers of vinyl flooring that are just a stain and polish away from being incredible flooring for your home.
'Or you could find an old pressed tin ceiling hidden by additional gyprock ceilings added over time.'
The professional raved about the potential of a shopfront home.
'There's something pretty special about being able to live in a shopfront and give it a new life! You're preserving part of Australian history and contributing to the beauty of the streetscape too for others to enjoy.'