191 Canterbury Road ST KILDA WEST

Comments on 191 Canterbury Road ST KILDA WEST

With block sizes in Port Phillip averaging 180 sqm, this double-fronted Edwardian on approximately 560 sqm land is a rare offering and has broader frontage than its close neighbours.  It is on busy Canterbury Road, but the high front fence goes some way to lessen the traffic noise. Behind the fence, the tired facade and park-like garden is sufficiently intriguing to conjure up ideas of what might be possible with a little bit of love and attention in the first instance but ultimately a major renovation (STCA) to make this a long-term home for a growing family.

From the front, the home appears single level, but an extension many years ago added a large second-storey extension at the rear extending forward into the roof space with storage and an enormous living / rumpus room. The principal rooms are large with very high, wood-lined ceilings.  The kitchen is basic and awkwardly positioned at the front of the home in what may previously have been a porch.  Bathrooms also are basic.

The existing floorplan has serviced the current owners for many years, with good room sizes and enough bedrooms and living areas to accommodate a large family.  However most buyers will consider how to open up the rear of the home creating living spaces with connection to the outdoors, relocating the kitchen and adding modern conveniences such as an ensuite.

The width in the block is a bonus and may enable a clever designer to overcome the negatives of southerly orientation that may otherwise hinder light access to the home and rear garden space that may be limited by depth in the block compared to the size of the home.

Access to the city and surrounds via public transport is good, and there is off-street parking for a number of cars off a driveway at the front of the property.  Although there is a garage, its condition and position is likely to be considered when renovating.  Even with a garage and additional cars parked here, the garden is still a good size for the precinct.  A high-rise apartment block to the south seems at first to a threat to privacy, but is likely to be screened out when renovating.

The big issue with this property is its location on busy Canterbury Road and the impact the noise will have on your quiet enjoyment of the property.  However buyers looking for a larger parcel of land for the family, within a budget,  may find the pluses more enticing than the concerns.