This Cunningham Street house in Northcote isn’t what it used to be. Renovators saw great promise in a weary, red brick residence with ‘good bones’ – and their gamble has paid off spectacularly. The house has been transformed into a magnificent, light-filled, family ready residence.

The first thing that strikes is the home’s overwhelming feeling of space. Rooms, transitions and even doorways enjoy a sense of generosity and allow flow and light to permeate throughout.

This was a perfectly balanced restoration – a combination of efforts by BuildHer Collective, Beirin Projects and the architect Bellemo & Cat – allowing the elegance of its original features to shine. Bold, intricately worked leadlight windows bring vibrancy; an arched, cast iron fireplace gives its room a natural focus and beautifully carved millwork gives areas of the home fine flourish. Shapes play beautifully within the home, providing elements of interest without crowding or losing connection to the home’s spirit. Contrasting levels present interesting corners and cordoned off spaces to retreat to, and a floating black staircase brings a sculptural edge. Floor to ceiling windows also welcome botanical elements inside the home. A grooved, oak island bench shows superb craftsmanship and brings textural richness to the kitchen, whilst a sleek marble top and black accents radiate sophistication. Polished concrete floors are elegant and spare, giving the home breathing space and allowing bolder elements to be revealed.

The sophisticated floor plan flows naturally through to an expansive entertaining area – designed so well for receiving guests. Clever updates to adjacent areas make the most of the pretty, north-facing garden and allow enchanting light play in the back living area. The smart swimming pool and styled edges of the garden combine with established trees to create an inviting outdoor space.