Home front: Cherrie Miriklis-Pavlou

Your first home? 

It was the worst house in one of North Fitzroy’s best streets, Alfred Crescent.  When we bought it in the mid-1990s, it was in dire need of repair so we gutted it and created the ideal home with three bedrooms, a formal dining room, an internal courtyard and Gaggenau​ appliances in the kitchen, which was the most expensive room in the house.

Describe your home style?  

Eclectic. I love to collect unusual pieces – predominantly French antiques – with a hint of art deco. I always have freshly-cut flowers and foliage in every room.

Best design tip? 

If you see it and love it, buy it.  I have always lived by this philosophy and, being from a creative field, I love having beautiful things around me that make my heart sing. Oh, and fill your home with flowers!

Your most memorable apartment? 

In my single days, pre-husband and son, I lived in a two-bedroom apartment in the old Victorian Meteorology building on the corner of Drummond Street and Victoria Parade, Carlton. Living there was like being in a scene from Gone with the Wind as it had a grand staircase, leadlight windows and a return verandah with uninterrupted views of the city.

Period home or contemporary?  

I’m a little old-fashioned, so I would choose period but with a modern twist.  I like the solidness of the old days with today’s creature comforts.

Best homewares shop? 

Weylandts​ in Abbotsford for its eclectic mix of pieces.  It’s a one-stop-shop for everything from big furniture items to the ideal throw rug and cushion. I also like Mud Australia in Fitzroy for simple yet beautiful things and HK Living in Armadale for affordable Dutch designs.

The suburb you love? 

East Ivanhoe is Melbourne’s best-kept secret.  I am currently living in the Walter Burley Griffin Estate. It’s close to the city and my work. It’s like living in the country but you’re only 15 minutes from the action.

Cherrie Miriklis-Pavlou opened boutique florist, Flowers Vasette, on Brunswick Street, Fitzroy, in 1989.