Sitting in the living room of 27 Woodstock St, Balaclava, you’d be forgiven for thinking you were in the middle of Manhattan.
An exposed brick wall creates a focal point in the room, while rustic timber roof trusses line the soaring ceiling.
The four-bedroom family home might be in Bayside Melbourne, but it has a distinct New York feel, courtesy of being a converted warehouse.
Besser + Co, Director, Dion Besser, says it’s a design trend that’s gaining popularity in Australia, especially across Melbourne and parts of Sydney, where old warehouses are being transformed into stunning modern apartments and family homes.
He says the Balaclava warehouse conversion has been getting plenty of interest thanks to its unique feel.
“It’s definitely got that New York flavour to it,” Dion notes.
Nelson Alexander agent, Josh Kalender, says there is no one type of buyer that typically purchases warehouse conversions, but people are always interested in them.
“Usually warehouse conversions are incredibly popular because they’re so rare,” Josh says.
“So they normally are incredibly well received.”
Dion maintains warehouse conversions often draw a lot of attention, but usually appeal to very specific buyers.
“They are super niche,” he says.
“For every 20 buyers looking for a four-bedroom home, you’ve probably got one buyer who would consider a warehouse.”
Dion explains that conversions appeal to buyers moving from larger cities, like New York, or those who want something smaller than a traditional house.
“During Covid, many people moved out of the cities and now as they move back they want a house but they don’t want a four-bedroom home on 800sq m anymore,” he says.
“So these types of people have been interested in this sort of property.”
Across the country, there are a number of high-end warehouse conversions on the market.
Balaclava
27 Woodstock Street, Balaclava, Victoria
Indicative price: $3-$3.3 million
This exceptional warehouse conversion spans three levels and makes the most of the original features, such as the double-height exposed brick wall, refinished timber floors, impactful skylights, and soaring ceilings, to create a dynamic living space.
The ground floor offers a spacious open family room with bi-fold glass doors leading to a versatile tandem garage/alfresco courtyard, two generously sized bedrooms with built-in robes, a fully appointed bathroom, a well-equipped laundry, and a temperature-controlled wine cellar.
The first floor offers an impressive open-plan living and dining area with a statement cathedral ceiling and gas fireplace, accompanied by a modern kitchen featuring Ilve/Asko appliances.
Additionally, there’s a luxurious main bedroom with a walk-in robe, a semi-ensuite bathroom, and a versatile fourth bedroom/study.
The top floor serves as an entertainment hub, featuring a radiant third living zone that extends to a stunning decked alfresco terrace offering sweeping views over the neighbourhood rooftops.
The property is listed with Dion Besser and he says it has been getting a lot of attention from locals who know the area and appreciate the design, as well as people who have lived in places like New York.
West Melbourne
4/40 Batman Street, West Melbourne, Victoria
Price: $2.49 million
Created by Preston Lane Architects, this warehouse conversion stands out for its expansive design, premium renovations, and dual outdoor spaces, all conveniently located on the fringe of Melbourne’s CBD, near Flagstaff Gardens.
The interior of the townhouse creates a high level of sophistication, featuring an oversized master bedroom with custom-fitted robes, a luxurious marble-tiled ensuite, and a private balcony.
The spacious layout includes separate lounge and retreat areas, as well as open-plan living and dining zones seamlessly integrated with a gourmet kitchen boasting marble benchtops, Bosch cooking appliances, and an integrated AEG dishwasher.
Luxury amenities such as hydronic heating, ducted reverse-cycle air conditioning, and high ceilings enhance the comfort of the home, while original solid hardwood floors add character.
There’s also a full-size laundry, European laundry, and plenty of storage options to cater to practical needs.
The residence also features a large terrace for relaxation or entertainment with stunning city skyline views.
Sales agent, Josh Kalender, says the location and uniqueness of the warehouse conversion were some of its main selling points.
“In terms of the uniqueness, the quality, the school zones and the lifestyle is really what the focal points are,” he notes.
“The history of the building and it’s kind of got that balance between the warehouse character, but then also that contemporary conversion makes it incredibly special.”
Balmain
409/22 Colgate Avenue, Balmain, NSW 2041
Apartment: $2.495 million
Situated on the top floor of the iconic Colgate-Palmolive building, this apartment offers unparalleled luxury and breathtaking views.
The soaring ceilings and expansive warehouse-style windows flood the space with natural light, making the most of the panoramic views over Balmain and the city skyline.
The interior features a spacious layout designed for optimal comfort, boasting polished hardwood floors and warm timber finishes.
The property includes two large ensuite bedrooms with built-in robes, a light-filled living and dining area, and a view-swept entertainer’s balcony.
The designer kitchen comes equipped with premium amenities, including a 3.5m island and granite benchtops.
With lift access to an oversized lock-up garage and close proximity to Balmain Wharf and Darling Street’s dining scene, this warehouse conversion is among the most desirable addresses on the peninsula.
Melbourne
3 and 4/10 Manton Lane, Melbourne, Vic 3000
Dual apartments: $4.85 million
Reflecting its 1880s wool store origins through its raw brick exterior, this warehouse conversion includes not one but two units.
Each unit features vaulted ceilings, exposed beams, skylights, open fireplaces, mezzanine levels, rooftop terraces, and two parking spaces with ample storage.
Together the two units include five bedrooms, four bathrooms, two spacious open-plan kitchen/living/dining areas, a gym, and home office spaces.
However, it has the potential to be converted into one larger apartment building.
iProperty Melbourne Director, Gus Kosasih, says buyers have so far been showing plenty of interest in the unique property.
“Buyers who really like those warehouse features like the high ceilings and windows have really been interested,” Mr Kosasih said.
South Yarra
8 Penny Lane, South Yarra, Victoria
House $4.25 – $4.35 million
Originally designed by renowned Australian architect Daryl Jackson, this New York-style warehouse conversion blends contemporary design with high-end fixtures and appliances.
Inside there are three soaring staircases underneath a glass roof, creating an extraordinary ambiance.
The five-level property features four ensuite bedrooms and versatile spaces ideal for a dynamic home office or personalised living arrangements.
Custom double-glazed steel windows and an exposed lift add to the building’s historical charm while contributing to the house conversion feel.
