45 Russell St, Newtown, was renovated five years ago to create a stylish family home.

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Designed by the vendor, Marija’s building design company, UR SPACE building design + interiors, this Newtown property epitomises refined and intelligent living by showcasing the home’s history while seamlessly integrating contemporary elegance and design.

“The original home, a Victorian style, has been retained at the front of the building. The front facade is true to its original character. I wanted to keep this as it is a piece of the home’s history,” Marija says.

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“Once you step inside the transformation is visible and surprising as the extension is not visible at all from the street. It is a lovely surprise when people walk in.”

Initially drawn to the location, Marija and her two boys have called 45 Russell St home for the past 12 years, enjoying the many local amenities.

“I love the location and close proximity to the Pakington St cafe scene, Barwon River, CBD, and schools; everything is close and within walking distance,” she says.

“When the boys were young, we would frequent the library (two doors down) and the park all the time. This being so close was fantastic.”

UR SPACE building design + interiors devised the contemporary extension.

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The central deck provides a sheltered entertainment area.

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Dark timber panelling is paired with brick splashback in the kitchen.

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Since completing the renovation and extension five years ago in 2019, Marija says the property has been the scene of many happy memories and catered for her growing family.

“It has been a great home for us that has adapted throughout the years to accommodate our family’s changing needs,” she says.

This includes intelligent zoning and a flexible floorplan, as well as extensive storage including panelled cabinetry and under-booth seating.

“The two living areas are ideal for our family and most families. There is the main living for all the family to gather, as well as a separate living that is used as the ‘kid hangout’ when they may need their own space. Flexibility in this home design was necessary and is executed beautifully,” Marija says.

The window seat and wood heater create a cosy vibe.

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The second living area has a more classic feel.

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Additionally, the well-selected choice of design features and fixtures including a large cathedral ceiling and an old Geelong red brick feature wall have helped generate an ambience within the house.

“The internal finishes were carefully selected to create a warm, cosy feel. A real ‘homely’ space within the home. This is further enhanced by the fireplace,” Marija says.

At the heart of the home is the open-plan living/dining area which Marija says was designed with entertaining in mind.

Pendant lighting features in this bedroom.

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The house has two modern bathrooms.

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“Our favourite space is the open plan dining/living area, particularly how this area has been designed to have an abundance of natural light and a feature window and window seat that connects outside with inside seamlessly,” she says.

“The new part can be closed off from the existing part of the home for zoning, heating/noise yet still maintains a visual connection through the glass door.”

Hayeswinckle, Newtown agent Daniel Hayes is selling 45 Russell St, Newtown, with a $1.195m to $1.295m price guide.