Slice Of The Big Apple

The Age

Saturday August 11, 2007

Katherine Townsend

Fancy New York-style living? It's closer than you think, writes Katherine Townsend.

BALACLAVA

New York Soho

45-47 Nelson Street, $425,000-$555,000

Private sale

Agent Hocking Stuart, 9524 7222

Melway 58 D11

BALACLAVA has undergone a funky upgrade over the past three years with many shopfronts converted to cafes, wine bars, fashion outlets or homeware stores. Now, new apartment complexes are appearing to accommodate those who want to be part of this renaissance.

New York Soho is a nine-apartment development about 100 metres back from Carlisle Street on the corner of Alfred and Nelson streets.

From that intersection, residents will be able to see at least three cafes, a wine bar and the passing parade of people heading to the supermarket at the end of the car park opposite. It doesn't get much more action-packed.

Five of the nine apartments have sold, but three one-bedroom and one two-bedroom apartments remain.

Hocking Stuart marketing agent Dion Besser says the development appeals to investors and owner-occupiers because of the site's proximity to just about everything.

Three trams and the Balaclava railway station are all a short walk away. The block will still offer residents underground car parking and storage cages for bikes.

The block is double-storey with some third-level lofts, from which the name "New York Soho" is drawn.

Mr Besser says the apartments are unusually big, with extra-large balconies. The loft-style designs in some of the apartments put the bedrooms upstairs overlooking a void to the living areas below. They give an extra sense of light and openness.

The dearest of the remaining apartments at $555,000 is apartment No. 8, which is a two-bedroom split-level apartment of 86 square metres, including the large terrace. It is on the first floor and faces Alfred Street, with the main bedroom, ensuite and walk-in wardrobe on the upper floor.

One-bedroom apartments are $425,000 and one of those remaining is also split-level, with the large living area on the lower floor and the bedroom upstairs overlooking the void below. The remaining one-bedroom apartments are single level.

The apartments have a contemporary look: grey exteriors with some red brick feature walls.

Inside, the apartments have timber floors, grey and white tones and plenty of glass.

Mr Besser says construction is likely to begin within four to six weeks and be completed by late next year.

© 2007 The Age

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