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The pandemic saw a boom in Melburnians working from home, making properties with workspaces or mixed zoning especially appealing.
This home for sale in Richmond has both, which is what attracted ceramic artist Aileen Corbett to the property three years ago.
‘During months of lockdown I was unable to attend the studio where I used to fire my work. As sculptures were rapidly filling my home, I began to contemplate a move where I could incorporate a studio within my home,’ says Aileen.
‘Having always wanted to experience warehouse living, I decided [this property] was perfect for my needs.’
The property forms part of a warehouse that has been subdivided and developed in various stages. Aileen’s home occupies the ground level of the building — designed and built circa 2015-2017 — with private street access, two bedrooms, one bathroom, an open-plan living, kitchen and dining area, and garage/studio.
The home is among the hustle and bustle of inner-city Melbourne, but tucked away in a surprisingly quiet, one-way, and no-through street.
Aileen says its location on the periphery of Collingwood, East Melbourne and Abbotsford provides her with ‘everything she loves about Melbourne’.
‘I spend my mornings exercising in East Melbourne, often followed by lunch a stone’s throw away in Collingwood, and then catching up with friends in Fitzroy or along Victoria Street for dinner. Everything is within walking or riding distance, yet I don’t have to be in the thick of it as soon as I leave my house.
‘There is also a really nice community vibe with neighbours and workers from close by creative industries stopping for a chat when we happen upon each other.’
Most catch ups happen at Long Street Coffee located just a couple of doors down from Aileen’s home.
The home’s industrial features include concrete floors and pillars, floor-to-ceiling west-facing steel framed windows, and bright white exposed brick walls that bounce light around the space. Aileen affectionately calls it her ‘brutalist bunker’.
‘I also love the layout. Having my studio accessible yet with the ability to disconnect by simply sliding the mirrored doors closed is amazing!’ she says.
‘I love the conveniences of keyless entry and smart lighting and the fact that I can work with my door open with loads of ventilation and natural light, yet with so much privacy, is awesome.’
With Aileen’s ceramics practice now expanding, she’s seeking a larger place to call home. She’s relishing the final days in this property before it heads to auction early next month!
51 Little Hoddle Street, Richmond VIC is listed for sale with Charlie Barham and Angus McPherson at Nelson Alexander at and goes to auction at noon on Saturday July 6.
