The ultimate guide to Carlton, Melbourne’s little slice of Italy

Cultured and full of character, Carlton is one of Melbourne’s most iconic suburbs. And rightfully so, with its vibrant hospitality scene, stately Victorian terraces and winning location. With a whole lot to offer in the way of lifestyle, Carlton is an inner-city gem that has long caught the imagination of Melburnians.

Firmly connected to its rich Italian heritage, Carlton is famed for its authentic pizza eateries and pasta swirling dishes. And although more and more restaurants with flavours that hail from across the globe are popping up, they do little to detract from Carton’s enduring love affair with all things Italian. 

At the centre of Carlton’s lifestyle is Lygon Street. It’s a foodie destination with a flair for fashion. Boutique shopfronts and restaurants that spill out onto the footpath sit alongside Melbourne’s iconic bookstore, Readings, and the much-loved art house movie theatre, Cinema Nova.  

“More than ever, Melburnians appreciate the effort that goes into something that might look simple but has a real history and story behind it; Carlton and Italianality,” says Michael Costanzo, director of D.O.C., an Italian restaurant that has been in the neighbourhood since 2004.

“What began as one very humble pizzeria in Carlton has now evolved into the modern Italian Gastronome D.O.C,” explains Costanzo. “We’re a slice of modern Italy with all the trappings of old school Italian tradition – we felt this was needed in Carlton,” says Costanzo.  

Yet, Carlton is so much more than its incredible selection of food; it’s a lifestyle that embraces its inner-city location. From lush green parks and the serene surrounds of Carlton Gardens to museums and the heritage Royal Exhibition Building. Then there’s the Queen Victoria Market, sporting grounds and CBD, all within easy walking distance. It also holds the title of the most walkable neighbourhood in Melbourne.

“Carlton is so close to the CBD but retains a suburban feel with plenty of green space. It enables easy access to many restaurants and bars, as well as the sporting precinct, to watch the footy or attend other events,” says Jonathan Carfi, a soon-to-be resident of Carlton.

With the University of Melbourne and RMIT University just around the corner, Carlton has long been a student hub. But now, with the introduction of Argyle Square, a sophisticated collection of penthouses and townhouses, there is a new way of living in Carlton’s historic streets. 

“We’ve always liked Carlton, but there isn’t much in the way of ‘upmarket’ buildings, with most of the apartment buildings aimed at students. Argyle Square provided an opportunity to purchase a luxury development in an unbeatable location,” says Carfi, who recently bought one of Argyle Square’s two-storey terraces with his partner.

Andrew Norbury, chief executive of Metier3, the design team behind Argyle Square, took inspiration from Carlton’s architectural heritage to create a beautiful blend of old and new, which is timeless in character.

“Argyle Square’s external design was informed by the Victorian buildings that are prevalent in Carlton,” says Norbury. “The most beautiful feature is the entry. Apartment buildings frequently have lobbies that are more like a museum than a residence. In contrast, Argyle Square has a beautifully scaled, vaulted entry behind traditional wrought iron gates, which leads to a small library-styled space beside the lift lobby.”

Norbury continues, “There is a generosity to the apartments that is uncommon in the area, and there is minimal repetition in the apartment design, meaning that most are unique. This makes the building more personalised and a custom fit.”

Residents will also enjoy a suite of exclusive amenities, including a concierge, cinema, library and co-share office space, as well as uninterrupted views across Carlton and the suburb’s icon, the piazza of Argyle Square. When you do venture out, however, everything you need is within easy walking distance, with the address claiming a Walk Score of 99.

It is the perfect fit for a neighbourhood that holds on tight to its Italian heritage while embracing Melbourne’s inner city’s colourful and cosmopolitan lifestyle.

Contact Agent

121 Cardigan Street, Carlton VIC 3053

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