One of Australia’s most celebrated architects, John Wardle, is parting with his long-time Melbourne home, a residence in Kew that carries decades of architectural evolution and craftsmanship.

Set on an elevated site with panoramic views back to the city, the property has an eye-watering price guide of $7 to $7.5 million.

The evolution of Wardle’s Kew residence

Wardle recently told inside magazine that he designs his own homes “lovingly and regularly” and Kew residence is clear evidence of this. 

Originally designed by Melbourne architect Horace Tribe in 1951, the Kew house has since undergone three significant transformations under Wardle and his wife Susan’s custodianship. What began as a necessity evolved into a layered and thoughtful series of modifications, resulting in a home that reflects Wardle’s architectural philosophy and love for craftsmanship.

“This house represents the entire life of our family,” Wardle says. “When Susan and I first saw it in 1990, we were drawn to its setting and the extraordinary view across the Yarra. Though unoccupied at the time, it wasn’t for sale – we spent nine months convincing the owner to part with it. Since then, it has been a space for raising our children, hosting friends, and continually exploring the relationship between architecture, art and the handmade.”

Much like Wardle’s seaside residence in Anglesea, Victoria, a hallmark of his Kew home is its bespoke detailing and collaborations with artisans and craftspeople. The latest refurbishment completed in 2021 features a generous study lined in Victorian Ash, where joinery integrates concealed shelving and sliding panels. 

Dark concave Japanese tiles cover the kitchen walls, while smoked glass sliding doors partially obscure folded steel shelves. 

A discreetly placed powder room on the ground floor showcases a rare tile sourced from Taijimi, Japan, rediscovered from a long-lost factory sample. 

Three ancient Scottish Elm trees influenced the home’s design and planning. Their presence provides a verdant outlook from many vantage points, reinforcing Wardle’s enduring philosophy of architecture as an extension of nature.

Photography by Tom Blachford.

Read the full project feature from inside magazine on John Wardle’s Anglesea beach house.