11/449-453 St Kilda Road
Melbourne, VIC 3004

This spacious and timeless apartment, built in 1936 in the Streamline Moderne style, is located directly opposite Fawkner Park in one of Melbourne's most prestigious addresses. Originally configured as a three-bedroom residence, it is now a generously proportioned two-bedroom apartment that combines period character with functional living space and an exceptional lifestyle opportunity.

The apartment features beautifully restored original hardwood timber floors and high ceilings adorned with ornate cornice details. It boasts two original fireplaces, one in the living room and another in the dining area, which add warmth and character to the home. The living and dining rooms are filled with natural light from multiple aspects, creating a welcoming and homely atmosphere.

The flexible floor plan offers a spacious living area, separate dining room, a walk-in robe, and a well-appointed bathroom with laundry facilities. For those seeking additional space or investment potential, the original three-bedroom layout can be restored.

Residents enjoy direct access to Fawkner Park, a beloved green space ideal for morning walks, weekend sports, and peaceful relaxation close to the city. The building is set within leafy communal gardens that enhance the tranquil environment.

The apartment is part of the historic Kia Ora complex, which occupies Crown Allotments 11 and 12. The site was originally developed with two villas around 1900 and 1923 before being purchased in 1935 by Kia-Ora Investments Pty Ltd, owned by the Dixon family, known for the Kia-Ora and OT cordial brands. The family aimed to create a modern, high-quality apartment complex on St Kilda Road.

Architect Lewis Levy, renowned for luxury flats across Melbourne, designed Kia Ora. Construction began in 1935 and was completed in 1936 at a cost of approximately £80,000. At completion, Kia Ora was Melbourne's largest apartment complex, comprising 60 residences across two symmetrical three-storey buildings connected at the rear.

The design reflects the Streamline Moderne style, a late Art Deco form emphasizing clean lines, curved corners, and smooth surfaces. The U-shaped layout surrounds a landscaped central courtyard, allowing natural light and airflow to reach every apartment. Architectural features include curved balconies, bi-chromatic brickwork in cream and chocolate tones, and vertical entrance towers with decorative leadlight windows. Apartments were originally equipped with hydronic heating, walk-in wardrobes, and modern kitchens, considered luxurious at the time.

Originally intended for Melbourne's professional and upper-middle-class tenants, the complex was managed by Williams and Company, who promoted it with extensive advertising and display suites. Tenants benefited from free hot water and central heating, with rents ranging from £2 17s 6d to £3 17s 6d per week. The founder of Kia-Ora personally reviewed tenants, favoring long-term residents.

By the 1950s, Kia Ora had become a landmark on St Kilda Road, noted for its size and prominence. Photographs from 1959 by Wolfgang Sievers captured its iconic presence. Minor updates were made in the 1970s to lighting, laundry, and pathways, but the main structure and design remain intact.

Today, Kia Ora stands as a highly intact and significant example of 1930s Streamline Moderne architecture in Melbourne. It represents the growth of elegant, medium-density apartment living during the interwar years and commemorates the Dixon family's contributions to industry and architecture.