Transforming a Historic Hawthorn Tram Depot into a Stylish Loft Apartment: A Unique Blend of History and Modern Living

A unique piece of Melbourne’s tram history is now available for purchase, attracting a significant number of interested buyers. Located within the heritage-listed 1920s Hawthorn Tram Depot, the two-level home at 45/8 Wallen Rd offers a captivating blend of old-world charm and modern design. Situated in one of the city’s most sought-after areas, this property has retained its iconic semicircular windows, red-brick exterior, and spacious warehouse ceilings since its conversion into apartments in 2002.

Fletchers Canterbury agent Brooke Warwick has reported strong interest in the property from young professionals, downsizers, and first-home buyers. She highlights the consistent capital growth in this part of Melbourne and emphasizes that properties in heritage buildings like this tend to hold their value exceptionally well.

The open-plan living area of the apartment features a double-height ceiling and a stunning arched window, allowing an abundance of natural light to flood the space. The industrial aesthetic is complemented by warm timber floors. The sleek kitchen boasts stainless steel benchtops, a glass splashback, and high-quality Smeg appliances. Additionally, there is a flexible second living space that leads to a breezy balcony.

The apartment offers a loft bedroom, perfect for guests or as a retreat, while the private double bedroom downstairs includes double-glazed windows, built-in robes, and a walk-in robe. The property also provides secure basement parking and a storage cage.

One of the standout features of this apartment is its quiet and private living experience. According to Ms. Warwick, encounters with neighbors are rare, and noise from other units is virtually non-existent. The location itself is unbeatable, with the Yarra River’s walking and cycling trails just a few steps away, and the vibrant Swan Street cafe and restaurant scene in Richmond easily accessible. The convenience of tram transportation at the doorstep allows for a quick ride into the Melbourne CBD, while the shops and dining precinct of Glenferrie Rd are also nearby.

Ms. Warwick notes that the recent interest rate cut has sparked a surge in inquiries and buyer confidence, particularly among first-home buyers who are eager to secure properties before prices rise again. As a result, competition for properties like this is heating up.

The apartment will be auctioned on March 15, with Fletchers Sarah Lowry conducting the auction.

[Note: The part of the article asking readers to sign up for the newsletter has been removed.]