Chrissie Swan’s Heartfelt Reno Proves Old Is New Again

Just when we thought Chrissie Swan couldn’t be any more likeable, she’s won us over again – this time with the thoughtful renovation of her 1950s brick home in Victoria.

Chrissie Swan mid-century home renovation dining area green kitchen — The kitchen and dining area features new timber flooring and an original teak ceiling. *(Image: Domain/WhiteFox)*

After purchasing the mid-century gem in April 2022, the radio and television host took a refreshingly gentle approach to its transformation. Rather than stripping away its original character in favour of slick, modern finishes, Chrissie embraced the home’s quirks and charm.

Chrissie Swan mid-century home renovation bedroom wallpaper — New carpet and wallpaper have been installed to suit the home’s original style. *(Image: Domain/WhiteFox)*

Going against the advice of friends and family who suggested spray-painting timber panelling and redoing the vintage tiles, Chrissie stayed true to her vision. “They wanted to make it dead inside,” she told Domain. “So many people said, ‘You can get tile paint for that,’ and I was like, ‘Why would I?’ Why would I turn a 70-year-old tile into a $3 Bunnings white square?’”

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Chrissie Swan has sold her South Yarra home for over $5million

Chrissie Swan mid-century home renovation The Chrissie Swan Show team Jack Charles — Chrissie with her co-host on *The Chrissie Swan Show*, Jack Charles. *(Image: Instagram via @chrissieswan)*

She was the sole bidder at auction, securing the property made up of two self-contained dwellings: a three-bedroom home at the front and a two-bedroom at the rear, both accessed via a shared entry hall.

Chrissie Swan mid-century home renovation bathroom vanity — Vibrant colours have been embraced in keeping with the mid-century aesthetic. *(Image: Domain/WhiteFox)* *(Credit: Image: Domain/WhiteFox)*

Despite her busy schedule, Chrissie poured her spare time into the renovation – replacing carpets, choosing patterned wallpaper that nods to the era and carefully preserving the home’s unique character.

Chrissie Swan mid-century home renovation Would I Lie To You TV show — Chrissie with her co-stars on TV series *Would I Lie To You? (Image: Instagram via @chrissieswan)*

“It was really important I didn’t just remove everything that made it unique.”
Chrissie Swan

Chrissie Swan mid-century home renovation dining timber ceiling — The teak walls and ceiling are key original features that were thoughtfully retained. *(Image: Domain/WhiteFox)* *(Credit: Image: Domain/WhiteFox)*

In a personal touch, she nicknamed the property Garland House, affectionately referring to its two sections as ‘Judy’ and ‘Liza’ – a tribute to the iconic mother-daughter duo.

Chrissie Swan mid-century home renovation Garland House home sign — Named Garland House, each section is affectionately called Judy and Liza. *(Image: Domain/WhiteFox)*

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Chrissie Swan has sold her South Yarra home for over $5million

Though Chrissie initially planned to move in, she’s now listed the home for sale with WhiteFox. Located at 14 Mayston Street, Hawthorn East, it comes with a price guide of $2.6-$2.86 million.

Chrissie Swan mid-century home renovation outdoor area — A peaceful courtyard features pops of yellow. *(Image: Domain/WhiteFox)*

The auction is scheduled for Saturday, May 24 at 11.30am. For updates on the sale, see the real estate listing.

Writer Rebecca Hooton Features Writer

Rebecca has 17 years of experience in the magazine industry. She worked as an intern at Cleo while completing a Bachelor of Communication at Western Sydney University. Following that, she was employed in writing and copy editing roles at titles such as Dolly, before becoming the features editor at Cosmopolitan Australia. She’s since had features in publications such as ELLE Australia and is currently a features writer across Home Beautiful, Country Style and Inside Out. You’ll most likely find her manifesting a cottage in the Cotswolds or watching Bluey (with or without her kids).

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