Set your Pinterest search to ‘post-war renovation’ and start the ideas flowing for a full-on makeover of this city-fringe period property. Yes, it requires a lot of work, but it’ll be worth it. Firstly, take the location. Truscott Street was once in the heart of mining-era life. Named after a former mayor and retaining many lovely heritage homes, it’s just a few minutes’ drive from the CBD, via the arts precinct. The house is almost original. Its charms are faded, but lovely enough to survive the passing of time for someone to appreciate with fresh eyes. The elevated front porch leads to double frosted glass doors, which open to a traditional central hallway with high ceilings. The first of two bedrooms is to the left, with a built-in-robe and split system heating and cooling. The loungeroom to the right has a gas heater, plus a beautiful ornate art deco ceiling, light fitting and mantlepiece. Heavy sliding etched glass doors lead to the dining room. Here, a built-in sideboard features more etched glass in the cabinet doors. Imagine these spaces freshly painted, with polished floorboards and refurbished fittings… The second bedroom also has built-in-robes. The central bathroom has a powder blue sink and bath, with a showerhead. The back kitchen is all but obsolete, although the upright gas stove is a recent convenience. The laundry and loo are off this space, as is access to the rear veranda and sleepout. The leafy backyard is a fantastic size, offering plenty of space for an extension, or subdivision, subject to council approval. Mayor Truscott was historically known as a ‘man of vision’. Who will embody his spirit and see a future for themselves at number 11?
