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Frank Body co-founders list their vine-covered Melbourne home for AU$4.3 million

The Victorian-era façade and contemporary extension is a real showstopper, even in Melbourne's affluent suburb of Richmond.
Ivy clad townhouse in MelbournePhoto: Jellis Craig

Frank Body co-founders Bree Johnson and Steve Rowley have put their Victorian-era family home on the market for $3.95 – $4.3 million. The entrepreneurial couple purchased the Melbourne home in 2015 for $1.9 million. Alongside interior design firm Therefore Studio, the couple undertook an extensive renovation.

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The first ‘wow’ moment comes as you drive up the street, where the vine-covered façade stands proud. Planted by former vendor Mary, who owned the property for 60 years, the lush exterior captured Bree’s imagination years before the house hit the market. When she and Steve heard about the sale, they jumped at the chance to call it their own. The couple managed to secure the property at auction after just one viewing.

The deal was sweetened even further when the couple discovered the sale proceeds, being a deceased estate, would be donated to breast cancer research.

A dramatic open courtyard sits alongside the kitchen as an ideal entertaining space for friends and family.
The kitchen is the heart of this home, with American oak cabinetry adding a lushness and warmth to the space. We’re in love with the striking steel benchtop, which contrasts dramatically with the warm wood.
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Rich in character but in dire need of a face lift, Bree and Steve began the process of transforming the space into a luxurious family home. The couple accomplished this, alongside running their various businesses. Bree is also the founder of creative agency Willow & Blake, and Steve is involved in several hospitality ventures. They also welcomed two sons, Ned (5) and Hugo (3).

The slick extension combines rich, warming oak and luxe, cosy furnishings alongside industrial materials, including exposed brick and concrete, creating an urban oasis befitting its inner-city locale. “The renovation took a very long time,” Bree told Domain. “But the result is an incredibly grand house. It was definitely worth it.”

Bree and Steve founded cult skin and body care brand Frank Body in 2013, alongside Jessica Hatzis and Alexander Boffa. The brand quickly gained global success, and in 2021, the founders sold a stake to Chinese equity firm EverYi Capital. The deal reportedly valued the company at around $100 million. In 2024, Bree stepped away from Frank Body’s executive team to focus on Willow & Blake, while Steve remains as CEO.

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Take a tour of the Frank Body owners’ home

The dining room

This home is a masterclass in flow, with the kitchen, living, dining and outdoor areas connecting seamlessly together.

The ensuite

In the ensuite, slate-coloured tiles contrast beautifully with the built-in oak cabinetry, while brushed gold hardware brings an industrial element.

The terrace

This resort-style terrace is made for alfresco summer afternoons – BYO cocktail or coffee.

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The main bedroom

The main bedroom suite features a walk-in robe, ensuite bathroom and private terrace, making it the perfect parents’ retreat.

Teh courtyard

A built in Beefeater BBQ and custom Fenwesco parilla grill extend the entertaining possibilities. 

The living room

The living room provides a cosy feel, with large windows and floor to ceiling curtains.

The wine cellar

This is a wine storage hack we could all use – a wine bar under the stairs.

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The garage

 A lockup garage with internal and external access provides excellent convenience to local amenities.

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