NEW WORLD CHARM

Design references inspired by the homeowner's Portuguese heritage feature throughout this charming character-filled terrace.

- Judy Pascoe

Some properties have the magical ability to transport you to another time and location, and this personality-filled terrace house in Melbourne is just such a place. Although just 81 square metres, the home is nevertheless a wonderful sanctuary for the owner, Teresa and her young son, Matias, with design references throughout that call to mind her Portuguese heritage.

The three-bedroom two-storey terrace, built in the 1800s, was very unloved when Teresa and her late husband Tom purchased it, attracted by its appealing original features, including a charming curved staircase. After Tom passed away, Teresa wanted to update the house in a way that felt lived-in, but not too polished or modern. Soma and Tom of Abode Restoration helped create her vision for the house and introduced her to interior designer Carole Whiting who had worked on their home.