97 Chapman Street, North Melbourne VIC 3051
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Heritage elegance & unmatched city-fringe location: A historic opportunity awaits
Tucked along one of North Melbourne’s most majestic, tree-lined streets on the city’s edge, the residence exudes charm throughout, from its arched entrance hall to the warm, polished floors and original fireplaces in three rooms. The kitchen and dining area with exposed timber beams, bluestone walls, and a large walk-in pantry/cellar reveal the original features of this charming home. Features include gas heating and split system AC. Two light-filled living areas with views to a sunny side courtyard lead to the outdoor spaces. A flagstone patio overlooks a peaceful, low maintenance garden, complete with convenient rear access for off-street parking.
Sensationally located just moments from University High, Melbourne University, Queen Victoria Market, Royal Park, hospital precinct and vibrant Errol Street’s cafes and nightlife, along with easy access to airport, CityLink and major roads. This remarkable one-of-a-kind home offers an unparalleled opportunity to bask in its enduring character with the option to modernise/update (STCA) at a later date. Homes of this calibre rarely come to market—don’t miss your chance to own a true piece of Melbourne’s heritage to enjoy immediately or reimagine a very exciting future indeed.
Owners Notes
Chapman Street has been my home for 22 years. When I first drove past, I thought it was just a small terrace. Looking at the floor plan, I realised it was a lot more interesting and took two dear friends to see it with me for the first time. When I first stepped down into the kitchen and saw the open fireplace, it took me back to my childhood in the West of Ireland and great uncle’s kitchen. And I fell in love with the house. Having a roaring fire in the kitchen to greet guests on cold winter days is something I’ll miss.
My understanding is that a couple of architects bought the house in the 70s and restored the original features. The exposed timber beams are apparently redwood from California, as the house was built at a time there were no big sawmills here. You can still find hand-cut nails buried in the beams. And see the lintels where the original windows and doors were.
Over the years, I’ve made a few changes, including bricking in the side courtyard, and enlarging the pantry. Plans to build above the living rooms to open up city views and reconfigure the bathroom and laundry to have a sunroom that opened to the garden, never eventuated, as the house is very comfortable and functional as it is.
The location was also a big draw. As a frequent traveller and with friends and family all around the world, the proximity to the airport is amazing (15 minutes is my best time). And then there’s Royal Park, the city, public transport, the hospital and university. Along with local shops and cafes and all within easy walking distance. When I bought the house, I thought all we needed was a good bookshop and bread shop, and we’d have everything. And now we do!
North Melbourne has a real sense of community, and I have been blessed with wonderful, kind neighbours and many good “dog” people. And will miss our two and four legged friends.
The garden has been a little oasis. There is a colony of white plumed honey-eaters that are frequent visitors and a joy to see. Along with the peaceful doves that enjoy sun-bathing in the back, wattle birds, and even the occasional currawongs.
As we move onto a new life overseas, I hope there is someone who will love this house as much as we have.