The home: A single-fronted, three-bedroom, Victorian cottage in Abbotsford, Melbourne. The front rooms have been restored, and the rear of the house is in the process of being modernised.
Who lives here: Jason Chongue, an architect at Hecker Guthrie and a plant cultivator with The Plant Society, his partner, flight attendant Nathan Smith, and their dog, Ingrid.
!["The plants helps create the feeling of an urban oasis," says Jason of the spare bedroom.](/web/20161104022931im_/http://www.smh.com.au/content/dam/images/g/r/0/l/n/e/image.related.articleLeadwide.620x349.gr3dyv.png/1472438020862.jpg)
What we did: "White paint lightened the atmosphere and provided a backdrop for my artwork, objects and rare plants," says Jason. "Doorways were heightened for better proportions, and a larger opening was created between the living and dining areas."
Favourite room: "The kitchen and living spaces bring together aspects of the whole house and planting," says Jason. "It's not just the physical collision between the heritage and new portions, but atmospherically it adds texture."
The 'hood: "There is something magical about Abbotsford - at one end there's the Abbotsford Convent and Collingwood Children's Farm; at the other, you have the hustle and bustle of Victoria Street."
Future plans: "To create an indoor green room - I finally did a plant head count: 127 indoor plants! - and to bring more charm to the front verandah," says Jason.
Best advice: "Don't get caught up in fads, but rather invest in heirloom items."
Words and styling Heather Nette King; Photography Armelle Habib
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