Warehouse conversion meets modern architecture in Newtown

Warehouse conversion meets clever modern architecture at a one-off Newtown townhouse that channels a warm inner city vibe.

An existing double red brick building at the back of the redeveloped Frank St property was the inspiration behind the luxury residence that popped upon the site seven years ago.

It’s been seamlessly incorporated into the contemporary new two-storey home, giving an unexpected urban edge to a rear wing that houses a bedroom suite and first floor studio.

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Vendor Mark, who bought the home off the plan from a local builder, said more old Geelong red bricks were sourced during construction and used to replicate the industrial feel in the entry.

“The back part had a heritage listing so he couldn’t demolish that portion of the building, it had an older house at the front, so the architect cleverly stitched it into a new design and it remained,” he said.

“It’s cleverly done and it adds a bit of character in there. Everyone loves old Geelong bricks and it gives it that warehouse feel.”

Getting in before building started allowed Mark and his partner to “take it to the next level” in terms of specifications.

They opted for underfloor hydronic heating for the polished concrete floors on the entry level – something they’re not sure they can ever go without again – and floor-to-ceiling tiles in three bathrooms.

It was the flexible floorplan with three separate living areas and a northern orientation that attracted the family to the townhouse.

The central open-plan kitchen, living and dining area has direct access to a swimming pool and covered outdoor entertainment area with a built-in barbecue.

“That courtyard with the pool is flooded with north sun in winter. We leave the blinds open in winter when the sun is lower because the sun just makes it way all down that northern side of the house,” Mark said.

“But because of the way it’s designed – we have an overhang from the upper storey – the bottom section is in shade and remains cool in summer.”

The choice of two main bedroom suites – one on each level, each with its own ensuite and walk-in wardrobe – adds to the flexibility of the floorplan.

The ground floor option, hidden behind a timber barn door, has exposed red brick walls and doors onto a private, leafy patio, while upstairs has a balcony.

There’s three further minor bedrooms upstairs, as well as another living room and the separate studio/home office with built-in workspaces that can be accessed via a deck or a second internal staircase off the family room.

This red brick hideaway has also doubled as another TV room for the family, which currently uses the front loungeroom as a gym.

Mark said the sense of privacy, the quality of other homes in the street and the ability to walk to the Barwon River, just 400m from the front door, and Pakington St’s river end cafe strip made for a great lifestyle location.

Whitford, Newtown agent John Moran has listed 20A Frank St, Newtown with a $2.45m to $2.65m price guide.