1/12 Essex Street

Sharing in the leafy prestige that sees Glen Iris so beloved, this charismatic prize with its own garden retreat offers impressive space, tasteful style, and ground-floor simplicity to be a standout adapted brilliantly for today. One of only five in a full reinvention of a timeless inter-war home, the wonderfully peaceful, endlessly practical abode proves outstanding in all respects. Classically generous proportions remain, hardwood floors keep character alive, and an array of updates harness the best of modern design, fostering an environment that's light-filled, liveable, and refreshingly low-maintenance. A Miele-equipped, stone-top kitchen comfortably caters for nights alongside friends in substantial living and dining areas, while tall silver birches sit centre-stage in a private front garden brilliant for a sunrise espresso, sunset cocktail, and Sunday barbecue. Accompanied by walk-in/built-in robes, a dual-basin bathroom with an integrated laundry, and smart main-bedroom ensuite, accommodation is just as perfect for professionals as savvy downsizers, while other highlights range from reverse-cycle heating/cooling to an open study area, quiet rear courtyard, and car space in a secure basement with a turntable. With local shops and cafés, the Gardiners Creek Trail, and acres of waterfront parkland only footsteps away, it's just moments to zoned Glen Iris Primary and Auburn High, revered Korowa, Sacre Coeur, and Caulfield Grammar, and the day-and-night verve of High Street and Glenferrie Road, while Glen Iris Station, the 6 Tram, and Monash Freeway ensure city commutes are a breeze.