AT HOME WITH ED FROM SOUTH CRESCENT

Ed’s journey to South Crescent by Neometro is peppered by experiences that have cultivated an appreciation for good design, community, and authentic living. Originally from a small town in West Yorkshire, he learned the values of resilience, durability, and genuine craftsmanship at an early age—principles he now seeks in his home and surroundings. Moving to Melbourne’s vibrant inner north was a natural progression for him, drawn by its creative energy, diversity, and love of music.

While he currently rents at South Crescent, the development has led him to buy off-plan at Neometro’s Gore Street project. Living in South Crescent has been the perfect way to immerse himself in the product before committing fully. It became the ultimate “try before you buy,” allowing trust to develop through experiencing the neighbourhood, the quality, and the community firsthand. His reservations about buying off the plan dissolved after engaging directly with Neometro’s team, whose transparency and integrity reassured him that his investment was in capable hands. The high-quality finishes, strategic design, and meticulous craftsmanship of the townhouse aligned perfectly with Ed’s appreciation for durability and authenticity, qualities he values deeply, given his background as a tunneller working on complex projects like the North East Link tunnel.

“Over a year ago, before any marketing came out for Gore Street, I'd seen some artist impressions online and thought that it looked like a fantastic development. I went to meet with Neometro, and then I got cold feet. There's a lot of bad press around buying off-the-plan online, and so I pivoted away from that, thinking I’d buy an existing home instead and then renovate. Then this place became available to rent. So I figured, let’s go and experience a Neometro property first-hand. So I ended my lease and came here. Within three weeks, I contacted Neometro and purchased a loft at Gore Street.”

The townhouse itself at South Crescent embodies everything Ed needs: generous spatial volumes, natural light, and a flexible layout that seamlessly blends practicality with elegance. Its open-plan living zones are tailored for hosting friends for music nights, cocktail workshops, or relaxed dinners—activities that fuel his creative passions. The outdoor area serves as a sanctuary where he can listen to records, share conversations, or enjoy quiet reflection after a demanding workweek. The high-end finishes and innovative spatial design support his artistic pursuits, transforming his home into a perfect canvas for his eclectic lifestyle. Living in Northcote, Ed feels the neighbourhood complements his rhythm—vibrant yet peaceful, energetic yet calm.

“I thought initially that the train station across the road would be a problem. I considered the noise of the trains, given that this is the front townhouse, but the sounds are actually quite therapeutic. You can hear a pitter-patter of feet coming out after each train. Just a faint background noise that makes you feel really connected with the outside. It somehow feels very tranquil in here. It’s lovely.”

By day, Ed’s life revolves around focus and precision. Working as an engineer on large-scale infrastructure projects requires resilience and meticulousness. But when the workday ends, his world opens up to music, community, and expression. Running a record label on weekends, curating underground techno shows, and sharing his passion for electronic music are vital parts of his identity. His home in South Crescent is more than just a sanctuary; it’s a hub where his work and passions intersect. The design and craftsmanship of the home support his creative pursuits, while the neighbourhood inspires the city’s lively energy and cultural richness.

Ed’s appreciation for Melbourne’s inner north is deeply rooted in his values and lifestyle. The neighbourhood’s mix of urban vibrancy and peaceful pockets resonates with his desire for a balanced life, where he can work hard and play just as passionately. The proximity to record stores, art galleries, and cafes feeds his artistic soul, and the quiet comfort of his home allows him to unwind and reflect. His background, from the resilience of his childhood to the precision of his engineering career, has shaped him into someone who values authenticity and longevity, not just in his personal life but also in his community. South Crescent exemplifies this ethos: a well-crafted, enduring space that feels both personal and connected to the world around it.

"I have been a bit of a nomad since moving away from West Yorkshire. Over the last ten years, I've lived in eight different properties and, by comparison, this is a good product. It’s clear to me now that the location of the house is the most important thing. The neighbourhood, access to amenities, access to record stores or places to hang out. That is number one. And then, number two, is to have an agile living space with volume. This place has that, and Gore Street will have it even more.”

For Ed, renting at South Crescent and having experienced the product firsthand has been more than an opportunity to settle in; it was an essential step in building trust in the quality and design of Neometro’s developments. His decision to buy a loft off the plan at Gore Street was made with confidence, knowing that his experience living in South Crescent had given him real insight into design, built integrity and community. It’s a space where his work as a civil engineer meets his love for music, community, and creative expression, a home that supports his journey and reflects his story. One that is built to last, designed with care, and full of character. In this vibrant neighbourhood, Ed has found more than a residence; he has found a place where every part of his life can thrive, a true reflection of his creative spirit.

A big thank you to Ed. Find out more about South Crescent, Northcote by Neometro here. Photography by Michael Pham. Words by Tiffany Jade.