Famed MasterChef Australia judge and restaurateur Andy Allen and his wife Alex Allen recently acquired a stunning new residence in Northcote, Melbourne. The couple purchased the two-storey, five-bedroom home just six months ago, adding to their journey in the city they now consider home after relocating from Sydney several years prior.
Designed by Top Dog Projects and completed in 2024, the residence combines Scandinavian and Japanese design influences, featuring curved architectural accents throughout the property. “It’s a bigger home than we previously had in Carlton, and it’s the first we have purchased together,” Mr. Allen shared in an interview with realestate.com.au.
Entertainment-Centric Design
Entertainment plays a pivotal role in the couple’s lifestyle, and they sought a home that could accommodate this passion. “Entertaining is a big part of my life, and it’s actually a big reason why I got into cooking in the first place,” Mr. Allen explained. The open-plan living areas facilitate seamless indoor-outdoor entertaining, allowing for gatherings with friends and family.
The couple has filled their home with modern furniture and artwork, including pieces that were relocated from their former residence in Carlton North. The L-shaped modular couch, designed in a shade reminiscent of shiitake mushrooms, stands out as a nod to Allen’s culinary background. “When we were styling our home, sticking with neutral tones was important for us,” Allen said. “There’s accents of colour throughout, and some artworks and sculptural pieces help break the muted tones, making it feel warm and reflective of who we are.”
A Kitchen Fit for a MasterChef
The kitchen is a focal point of the home, equipped with high-end Smeg appliances, a butler’s pantry, and a Dolomite stone island bench. “When we were house-hunting, we were set on finding a decent sized kitchen that also felt integrated to the rest of the home,” Mr. Allen noted. This spacious layout allows him to engage with guests while cooking, reinforcing the communal atmosphere he values.
As the owner of the popular restaurant Three Blue Ducks, Allen is currently focused on opening a new location in Burradoo, NSW. Despite his busy schedule, he appreciates the sense of community in Northcote, a quality that played a significant role in their decision to move. “We loved Carlton because it had everything we needed, but now that we’re in Northcote, you really get a sense of community which we love,” he said.
According to PropTrack, the median house price in Northcote has increased by 2% over the past year to approximately $1.66 million. The couple’s new home is a testament to their commitment to creating a vibrant lifestyle, complete with an inviting outdoor space featuring a solar-heated pool and barbecue area.
As summer approaches, the Allens look forward to making the most of their outdoor entertaining area. “As the weather gets warmer, I’ll definitely be drawn to our outdoor space too,” Mr. Allen said, emphasizing the importance of a welcoming home environment.
Overall, Andy Allen’s Northcote residence reflects a blend of modern design, personal touches, and a strong commitment to community and hospitality, solidifying their place in Melbourne’s vibrant culinary scene.
