44 Union Street

Description

Light and space come together in perfect harmony at this distinctive home in this prized Armadale pocket just moments to Union St Park, Malvern and Armadale shopping, transport and with easy access to leading schools.

Architect Stephen Varady has taken a faded Victorian building, c.1890 and former Dairy and Gallery and grafted new elements onto the old to give it new life. The result is a unique four bedroom, three bathroom home with light -filled interiors, multiple living areas, home office, streamlined connection to the outdoors, solar-heated swimming pool, converted stables and secure garaging.

The home was a finalist in the 2008 National Architecture Awards, while the main bedroom made Belle Magazine's Top 50 rooms in Australia the same year. Recently refreshed, it is as appealing and contemporary today as when it was renovated more than a decade ago.

French oak floorboards, polished concrete, bluestone and timber finishes, and windows that capture the northern light create private, sophisticated yet homely interiors with a functional floorplan suited to families with young or older children. Mixing old and new materials, the unpretentious façade and rejuvenated external walls let the building reclaim its position in the neighbourhood.

The entry foyer opens to the living room before the hall leads to the sun-drenched kitchen with a Viking cooker, polished concrete benches, bespoke etched glass splashback and butler's pantry. The kitchen overlooks the living room where big glass sliders open to broad decks, garden and pool for countless indoor-outdoor entertaining options. The dining room is an intimate space in the open-plan design with a spacious home office and a fourth living room nearby.

Upstairs the design and simplicity of the main suite with walk-in wardrobe and luxurious ensuite shows the taste, creativity and expertise behind the build. Three more spacious bedrooms with built-in robes and openable roof windows to view the night sky share a zoned bathroom.

Converted stables offer another expansive living space/ games room with rooftop views. Features include remote controlled garage with internal entry, guest bathroom, laundry, powder room, hydronic heating, air-con, sliding cavity doors, 600- plus bottle cellar.

Families will love the combination of this home's history, vast living spaces and convenience close to public transport, shops and access to many excellent schools