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This 1920s farmhouse on a 2,600-square-metre site in Victoria’s Mount Martha offers generous family living but Melbourne interior design practice Rowe Studio sees exciting potential in its heritage bones.
Set on a 2,600-square-metre block close to the coast at Mount Martha in Victoria, 27 Augusta Street offers a rare combination of historic character, location and size, with exceptional scope for future evolution. Originally built in the 1920s, the restored farmhouse retains its original charm – soaring panelled ceilings, hardwood floors, picture rails and five fireplaces evoke the feel of a timeless country estate. It is now on the market through Warlimont & Nutt in Mount Martha.
Designed for both retreat and gathering, the flexible layout features five bedrooms, three bathrooms, three distinct living areas and a country-style kitchen with timber and marble finishes. Outside, rolling lawns, mature trees, landscaped gardens and a fire pit create a true sense of tranquillity. Hydronic heating, solar panels and a recycled water system enhance the home’s liveability and sustainability.
But the residence could be much more. For expert insight into the home’s design potential, we turned to Sarit Wermut, director of Rowe Studio, a Melbourne-based architecture and interior design practice focused on bespoke, character-driven spaces.
While not involved in the design of the property, Wermut brings a valuable perspective. “The flexibility of the layout is perfect for a family,” says Wermut, emphasising the multiple living zones, spacious rumpus room and open-plan kitchen. “The original farmhouse details have been lovingly retained, bringing character, style and history. The exposed timber trusses and rafters and original timber flooring add so much character.”
Inside, Wermut sees potential to layer warmth and personality through colour and materiality. “The original ceiling details, wall panelling and moulding are intricate and beautiful. Just painting these elements any colour other than white – such as an entire room painted in a feature colour – accentuates and lifts the details while adding an element of fun and richness throughout the house.”
“Opening up the southern living room wall with multiple double doors that lead straight out to the garden would bring in beautiful views, light and greenery.”
Wermut also suggests strengthening the indoor-outdoor connection. “Opening up the southern living room wall with multiple double doors that lead straight out to the garden would bring in beautiful views, light and greenery, and of course increase the usage of the garden straight off the living area.”
Beyond the immediate footprint, Wermut sees potential for future extensions. “The eastern garden behind the kitchen presents the perfect opportunity for a large undercover alfresco area. An eastern external extension off the kitchen and butler’s pantry would allow for a reconfiguration of the kitchen/pantry, opening up the eastern wall towards a private outdoor dining/barbecue or lounge alfresco area.”
Additional features include a barn-style studio with outdoor bath, inground pool, sauna, six-car garage with office and gym, and a restored heritage barn ideal for guests or events.
On the market for between $2.95 million and $3.25 million through Trent Cameron at Warlimont & Nutt; 0407 006 239; sales@wnre.com.au.
