Bree Johnson’s mum told her to always buy property near the ‘three ps’: parks, public transport, and pubs.
This circa 1888 Richmond, Melbourne house met all those requirements and more, with its double-fronted two-storey Victorian facade covered in vines.
Bree had long been familiar with the Richmond home, from often parking her car in the same street when going to work as the co-founder of beauty label Frank Body, and branding agency Willow & Blake.
The mid-Victorian symmetrical brick house is located on one of Richmond’s oldest streets, and is historically significant due to its uncommon two-storey scale.
Bree and her husband Steve Rowley (co-founder of Frank Body, Buddy Capital, and Sixty-One Hospitality Group) were away when the house initially came up for sale six years ago. They were able to attend the very last inspection, and bought the property at auction later that day.
‘We bought it from a lady called Mary who passed away and donated all the profits to cancer research. Everyone tells me she was an incredible lady,’ says Bree.
The couple have lived here ever since with their two children Ned (3) and Hugo (2). Bree says the family happily live in a ‘bubble’ that includes their offices, home, and local cafe all within walking distance.
‘I’ll generally see at least three people I know on this trip,’ says Bree. ‘I really appreciate that morning connection, even if it’s just a wave across the park or a “Hi, how are you” as you cross paths on the street.’
Bree and Steve have maintained the heritage part of the home and replaced the rear with a new light-filled addition designed by Therefore Studio.
‘The idea is that the front of the house is a modern interpretation of heritage, and the extension is by contrast is modern Australian utilising off-form concrete, steel and lots of timber,’ says Bree.
‘It’s more reflective of us as people — minimal, green, and full of light — whereas Frank and our office is more reflective of that brand — fun, quirky and creative.’
A lightwell and courtyard draws nature into the home, ensuring light and greenery is visible from every room. ‘My son calls our house the leaf house, and I think that’s a beautiful description as we did focus on ensuring there’s a connection between outside and in,’ says Bree.
Unsurprisingly, Bree and Steve are regularly asked about their home’s facade. They regularly maintain the ficus pumila (or ‘creeping fig’) growing across the facade, with twice yearly visits from Will Gibson Gardens.
