Agents & Their Spaces – Leonard Teplin

In his immaculately updated Victorian residence, Marshall White director Leonard Teplin believes it’s the sentimental touches that make his house a home.

‘The most important thing about home for me has always been the people in it,’ he says. ‘Since the recent addition of our first born it’s the simple yet joyous dynamic of the three of us at home that makes it special for me – four if you include our dog Penny.’

Family is at the centre of Leonard’s appreciation for his home: it’s the lens through which he views each space. A particular focal point for these happy memories is the contemporary marble kitchen, which he recently redesigned.

‘My favourite place in the whole house is the kitchen bench – I associate it with many fond memories of friends and family gathering to enjoy each other’s company, typically while we overindulge!’

Leonard and his wife Leisa renovated this home a couple of years ago, before the birth of their daughter. They’re currently building their forever home less than a kilometre away, and Leonard observes how different the process has been between the homes.

‘It’s been exciting to renovate and extend while learning from our past success and many failures,’ he muses. ‘I used to tell buyers there’s no such thing as a perfect home, but that doesn’t mean you can’t strive to create it.’

The sleek contemporary designer touches throughout the home Leonard attributes to his wife, whose artistic sensibility lends the space its unique flair. ‘Early on in our relationship I recognised that styling wasn’t one of my strengths,’ he laughs. ‘My wife, a jewellery designer, has a tremendous talent for functional, smart and practical living without necessarily worrying what’s trendy.’

Art holds a special place in Leonard’s heart, and has led to the creation of one of his favourite features of his home. ‘When our daughter turned one, we were thrilled when friend and artist Julius Killerby agreed to paint her portrait,’ he says. ‘It will take pride of place in our new home.’

Albert Park’s appeal for Leonard resides primarily in its walkability. Strolling around the area is a favourite pastime, as well as frequenting favourite local spots including Guilty Moose and Italian Artisans.

With almost two decades of real estate experience, Leonard has watched the industry evolve, and marvels at the current era’s ease of connection. ‘There are so many cost effective, incredibly fast ways of communicating with clients now, which is great for convenience but can also lead to an expectation of 24/7 business,’ he observes.

His career highlights include selling an 1800s former brew tower in Collingwood, transformed over six levels into a truly unique family home. His advice to those looking to buy property?

‘Don’t wait for a bell to ring as a sign the market’s bottomed out – it never does! Get your deposit in order and secure your finance.’