SOCIAL observer and author James Holman was dubbed the “blind traveller” for his global wanderings in the 1800s.
Despite being totally blind and suffering debilitating pain and limited mobility, the Englishman was the first blind person to circumnavigate the globe solo — amongst other achievements.
With its clean lines and generous spaces, navigating this five-bedroom abode on Holman Street, Melville, would be child’s play for such an adventurer, and anyone else.
A bank of highly perfumed iceberg roses lead to the front door, where a covered portico/verandah offers shelter to a weary traveller.
Once past the stained-glass front door you’ll find a sweep of jarrah floor in the massive lounge. A stylish gas-fired rock fire is an elegant and warming touch, and a shabby-chic timber feature wall and long, lean windows onto a lush garden add to the ambience.
Stepping into the adjacent kitchen/dining is awe-inspiring with its huge spaces and massive windows/doors onto an aqua-blue pool and lush tropical garden.
Soft, grey/white stone floors are a beautiful match for the crisp white of the massive kitchen fittings, as is the caesar-stone island/breakfast bar.
A pressed-tin look splashback and a couple of deep ceramic sinks add to the classy look and feel of this huge space, with its mass of soft-close drawers, cupboards and large pantry.
Floor-to-ceiling windows and doors ensure plenty of light, and the dining area has lovely booth seating.
There’s a second sitting room nearby that also overlooks the garden and pool.
No matter the season the alfresco area is an absolute winner, a ceilinged deck surrounded by insect screens, set amid 878sqm of lushness.
Pulling up a chair I could appreciate breakfast before work in this serene space, a barbecue lunch with friends, and pleasant dinners in the cool summer evenings.
A generous study sits midway between the ground floor and the second level main bedroom.
This parents’ domain has room for a couple of comfy chairs and a massive window overlooking the pool and a jungle of greenery, and a very stylish ensuite with granite vanity.
This is a delightful family home, with room for the kids to play and the adults to relax.
by JENNY D’ANGER
3 Holman Street, Melville
from $950,000
Peter Clements
0415 920 920
Mint Real Estate Claremont
9284 6000
