Bassett Road

A symphony of space and light, this gallery-like two-bedroom duplex for rent has modern living down to an art.

Found within a handsome stucco-fronted townhouse, light-filled living areas and period proportions set the tone at this duplex apartment. Formerly an exhibition space dedicated to the work of emerging artists, the aesthetic sensibility of its creative owner manifests in the smallest of details.

Pared-back design – all clean lines and muted tones – lets vibrant furnishings and artwork take centre stage. An inverted layout brings ease to everyday living. The ground floor is the social heart of the home, while the garden level is for resting and resetting.

Off the entrance hall, enter an open-plan reception room and kitchen that diffuses the boundaries between cooking, eating and lounging – a considered space designed for entertaining. High ceilings, a marble fireplace and broad sash windows nod to the property’s period heritage. Curated, characterful pieces, including a Gino Sarfatti lamp, a Tom Dixon velvet sofa and unique Anton Alvarez side tables, are made more striking because of the minimal décor.

The kitchen is streamlined and fuss-free. Integrated appliances and sage green cabinetry sit beside granite counters and open shelving. In the warmer months, open the French doors to a decked terrace that enjoys a leafy outlook. Coral-toned outside furniture adds a pop of colour. There’s a clever interplay between this level and the lower ground floor. Both enjoy access to the tree-lined patio garden; from the balcony, descend a winding staircase.

A set of French doors opens up the principal bedroom suite below to the outside. Laid-back and understated, it’s an inviting retreat from the stresses of city life, complete with an ivory-coloured en suite. The second bedroom – served by a family bathroom – is ideal for overnight guests. Home workers can repurpose it as a study.