ABOUT ME
CHRISTINE HENDERSON
It's no surprise that real estate is my chosen profession. From an early age, architecture has excited me, especially when it comes to older homes. You know those I'm talking about - the homes with character; the ones that possess characteristics that can be adapted and renovated to grow with modern times. There's nothing like it - contemporary is beautiful, but mid-century modern homes simply tug at my heartstrings with their warmth and simplicity..
Growing up in Bayside, I was captured by the neighbourhoods in which Merchant Builder homes stood. My dad had the hardware store in the Beaumaris Concourse for over 20 years, so I came to appreciate the areas with unique architecture and the multitude of artists and creative people who lived in and loved the suburb.
Presently, MCM homes are far and in-between with most replaced with contemporary homes. However, Bayside is still an area in which these homes have been wonderfully preserved and adored. Now that I have joined the fantastic group at The Agency, I have the choice to work anywhere in Melbourne. But because of its coastal beauty and appreciation for MCM - it's Beaumaris and Bayside that I choose.
My fascination with this architecture has taken me all across the world at times! My most recent trip (pre-COVID) was when I attended Modernism Week in Palm Springs (2019 and 2020). Here, I met with local real estate agents to learn more about how they market and sell MCM homes. It's become somewhat an obsession of sorts! I just can't get enough.
The greatest pleasure I get in selling an MCM home to a buyer is selling to someone who is just as passionate about the era as I am. I love introducing someone to an MCM home that will love, restore and honour their home, rather than start again with something new
PORTFOLIO
With over 20 years experience in the property industry i have an extensive list of properties sold . . . of which here are some of my Mid Century favorites !
Originally built in 1960 for local psychologist J. Humphrey, 'Humphrey House' is a striking example of mid-century architecture, conceived at a time when the suburb's architectural identity was still being written by professionals and creatives who built for individuality rather than convention. Six decades on, this five-bedroom, three-bathroom icon has been updated and expanded into something altogether more spectacular, a resort-style family residence that could have been lifted straight from a Slim Aarons photograph, delivering the full promise of Bayside living without a single concession to the ordinary.
Designed by Polish architect Tadeusz “Tad” Karasinski and completed in 1966, this solid double brick mid-century residence was built by the one family who have called it home for six decades. Their devoted stewardship has preserved the essence of its European-inspired design, where a distinctive open-plan concept is enhanced by hand-crafted materials, generous natural light and a deep garden setting that is simply breathtaking.
Built in 1965, this distinctive mid-century home has remained with one family for just over 40 years, evolving at their pace and retaining much of its original character along the way. The design came from Craig Davis Homes Pty Ltd, whose catalogue plans shaped a wide stretch of Melbourne suburbs in the era, and those origins remain easy to recognise here. The burnt orange brickwork, the long iron balustrade, and the intelligently designed split-level layout all speak to that period of architecture, while the coast, situated a five-minute walk from the door, has shaped how the property has been used and enjoyed
Cherished for over six decades, it remains in immaculate original condition, remarkably preserved and deeply personal, as the long-time residence of 1963 Archibald Prize winner Louis Kahan, whose life and work are intrinsically tied to its walls, its architecture, and its magnetic sense of belonging.
Cherished for over six decades, it remains in immaculate original condition, remarkably preserved and deeply personal, as the long-time residence of 1963 Archibald Prize winner Louis Kahan, whose life and work are intrinsically tied to its walls, its architecture, and its magnetic sense of belonging.
In the quiet curve of Bellaire Court, time feels deliberately paused. Conceived and developed by Max Sachs between 1963 and 1968, this architecturally cohesive cul-de-sac in Beaumaris remains one of Melbourne's most intact expressions of mid-century design.
Known for his forward-thinking, Californian-influenced homes, Sachs created a series of residences that captured the optimism of their era, designed for light, openness, and for families who saw the outdoors not as a backdrop, but as a living extension of the home.
Mid-century homes in Beaumaris rarely change hands, and even fewer hold a place as significant as Lyon House. Designed in 1953 by architect Eric Lyon as a residence for his young family, the home reflects a pivotal moment in Melbourne's architectural story. Beaumaris now holds one of the world's largest concentrations of mid-century homes. Yet, Lyon House stands apart, appearing on ABC's Restoration Australia, featuring in both volumes of Beaumaris Modern and having won "Best Heritage Renovation" in the 2023 Bayside Built Environment Awards.
Just moments to beautiful Beaumaris beach, this character-rich 4-bedroom home is a stunning example of mid-century design, where natural materials and expanses of glass combine to seamlessly connect inside spaces with lush outdoor zones.
Rock-the “Need” house by Graeme Gunn. Owned by a local artist, sold in Summer and offered all buyers who attended fancy mineral water and straws with paper pineapples to get a party feel. Also commenced this campaign with an exclusive cocktail party for subscribers of Beaumaris Modern.
The home was bought by a prominent Australian actress who had seen it in the press and on social media from our event.
As beautiful as the day it was constructed and cherished by the same family ever since, this captivating 1950s home is a step back in time with the foundations for modern living and a striking poolside environment where entertaining and intimate everyday living are welcomed with open arms.
Just nominated for heritage protection we had to find sympathetic buyers who would love and restore this home. It has just been sold to buyers from Scandinavia who love MCM.
The Yuncken Home, owned by the Yuncken’s of Yuncken Freeman who were monumental in some of Melbourne’s most iconic buildings including the Myer Music Bowl and most hospitals.
We had a very fancy champagne and croissants event that Peter Maddison attended as our patron.
Almost original looking out over the golf course, furnished with all original furniture that we borrowed and some incredible art work all the way from Palm Springs.
Dedicated followers of mid-century modern design will be lining up to inspect this beautiful sun-filled residence by renowned architect Neil Clerehan. Meticulously maintained and still showcasing its fabulous original (albeit enhanced) kitchen and bathroom, the home is sure to put a smile on the faces of everyone who visits thanks to its sun-filled spaces, neatly manicured gardens and wonderfully central location near schools, shops and transport.
This sympathetically & newly renovated, single level mid-century 'Beauy Classic' immediately welcomes you, with incredible street appeal.
Designed by renowned local architect John Baird for its current owner in 1965, this notable example of mid-century architecture is being offered for the first time since new.
Just moments to beautiful Beaumaris beach, this character-rich 4-bedroom home is a stunning example of mid-century design, where natural materials and expanses of glass combine to seamlessly connect inside spaces with lush outdoor zones.