New York-style warehouse apartment offers prime spot above one of Melbourne’s most famous laneways

This Manhattan loft-style apartment delivers a triple treat: iconic location, whole-floor scale and, most importantly, style. 

“You walk in, and the entire space just hits you,” says Kay & Burton listing agent Ben Hughes. “It’s got such a wow factor.”

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3/165 Flinders Lane, Melbourne VIC 3000

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Set in McDonald House, a landmark neo-Renaissance building at 165 Flinders Lane, Melbourne, the second-floor apartment was once home to the Godwin Charli tailoring showroom. 

“[The building] was built in 1921 and developed by a clothing manufacturer,” Hughes says. “The current owner bought [the apartment] in 2022 and fully renovated it.”

He says the transformation was a “passion project” for the owner.

“She had no formal design background, but her styling expertise is evident,” Hughes says. “If you look at all the furnishings individually, they’re very eclectic and different, but they really work together beautifully to create a unique yet cohesive space.”

The owner incorporated Lavistone benchtops, bronze cabinetry hardware, a Siemens oven and induction cooktop, a custom-built library/TV cabinet with a rolling ladder, a custom-built leather banquette, and a feature chandelier.

The building’s industrial past is honoured here, with polished concrete floors and ceilings.

Functionality lies in the under-tile heating in the bathroom, electric block-out blinds and a secure lift. 

The shared rooftop terrace adds entertaining appeal against the backdrop of the CBD. “There’s a viewing platform on the rooftop, which has some pretty stunning views,” Hughes adds.

The location is unmatched, and one of the reasons why the building’s seven properties are tightly held – just two have come to market since 2006. 

Flinders Lane is known for its exclusive dining spots, art galleries, hidden bars and fashion boutiques. Then there’s the Instagrammable Hosier Lane, which the apartment overlooks through wide windows. 

It’s also walking distance from the Forum Theatre, Flinders Street Station and pretty much everything else in inner-city Melbourne.

For those not keen to leave the building, the renowned Apollo Inn is located downstairs, perfect for a late-night cocktail.

“You’ve got access to the entire financial district as well,” Hughes says. “Lune [bakery] is downstairs, and there’s easy access to the MCG and the city’s sports precinct.” 

He adds that although the apartment sits in the bustling city, it is “relatively quiet”, adding: “With Flinders Lane being a quieter street, and Hosier Lane having no through traffic, there’s no real road noise.” 

The building contains a mix of commercial and residential properties, with this apartment suiting either purpose.

Hughes notes it could appeal to interstate and coastal buyers looking for a Melbourne bolt-hole, or creatives seeking a commercial space.

“The current vendors are in Black Rock, and they were using it as a city base when they’d come to Melbourne for the footy or restaurants,” he says.

The property at 3/165 Flinders Lane has a price guide of $1.5 million to $1.65 million. Expressions of interest close at 6pm, May 26.