St Kilda is home to numerous 1920s apartments with ornate features, and one of the best belongs to John Wares, owner of Melbourne gift and homeware shop Mr Wares in the Block Arcade, and his friend of 30 years, Peter Papadopoulos.

Since purchasing this property in 2015, John has embarked on a major renovation, reconfiguring almost the entire floor plan in the process. The outcome is a classic and considered space, which remains respectful of the building’s distinct 1920 architecture by Christopher Cowper.

With its urban location, historic details, and generous proportions, this space now feels akin to a European apartment, with the added benefit of bayside Melbourne views!

We feature a host of architecturally extended homes, so it’s a joy to highlight a designed garden that responds so thoughtfully to a renovation.

Not overdone, nor too sparing, this outdoor oasis Ian Barker has created to complement a family home in Camberwell is just perfect!

Chela Edmunds is an absolute creative force to be reckoned with. You might recognise Chela and her gorgeous daughter Ocean from our family story in February, but if you’ve been paying attention to Victoria’s creative scene over the last decade, you’ll no doubt have delighted in one of Chela’s many wonderful creative ventures.

Today, the founder of Takeawei Ceramics shows us around her latest project – a sunny new retail space on Gertrude Street in Fitzroy, and the apartment above that she’s completely made over, for short term accomodation!