Step inside the cherished homes of Italian-Australians, and you’ll discover a striking reality: these residences are becoming increasingly rare, yet they hold a significant place in the narrative of Australian housing history. When renowned filmmaker Frank Lotito recently reached out on social media seeking an Italian-Australian home that seemed frozen in time, he was astonished by the flood of responses.
“I had no idea there were still so many left,” remarked Mr. Lotito, the creative mind behind the 2022 film "Wog Boys Forever."
Properties like the iconic 33 Grebe Street in Stirling serve as poignant reminders of a bygone era, but such time-capsule homes are facing extinction as they are often sold, renovated, or even torn down.
From Coburg in Melbourne to Leichhardt in Sydney’s Little Italy and Balcatta in Perth, solid brick houses from the 1970s and 1980s that showcase strong Italian influences are still standing, built to endure through the ages. The post-World War II wave of southern European migrants who constructed these suburban havens were attracted to affordable housing options near job opportunities, thereby transforming the urban landscape.
Frank Lotito’s quest for an authentic Italian family home for his film was driven by the desire for a residence that felt “lived in and loved.” This upcoming film, titled "Nonno," is based on Archie Fusillo's book "The Dons" and tells the touching coming-of-age story of a teenage boy and his grandfather, delving into themes of family and generational connections. The film will begin shooting in April, featuring Franco Nero from "Django" fame in a key role.
After days filled with sifting through numerous responses and visiting various homes—where he was graciously welcomed with coffee, biscuits, homemade salami, and even grappa—Mr. Lotito eventually discovered his ideal suburban treasure in Preston, Melbourne. This gem belonged to the mother of his executive producer, Frank Monterosso.
The classic features of this property included a double-fronted brown brick facade adorned with white balustrades and columns, alongside a retro 1970s laminex kitchen, beige tiles, shag pile carpets, and amber glass room dividers—all elements that evoke nostalgia.
Justin Merendino of Ray White Perth notes that similar homes still exist in neighborhoods like Balcatta and Stirling. He explains, "These residences boast double brick structures, columns, lion statues at the entrance, and grand cast iron gates. They reflect a sense of pride and prosperity within the community, particularly among those Europeans who faced significant challenges upon arriving in a new country. Many of them had limited education and only knew how to work hard."
For younger generations, however, many of these homes—which were often handcrafted to suit European tastes with dark timber staircases, marble accents, and specific design choices—are now perceived as outdated.
“They walk in and think, ‘Oh, the kitchen looks old-fashioned,’” notes Mr. Merendino. “To an Italian from the 1970s, having a Jarrah door meant you had hit the jackpot!”
Some of these long-standing family homes are listed for auction, like the property at 39 Bruce Street in Coburg, which will go under the hammer in March with an estimated price range of $1.3 million to $1.4 million.
In Sunshine, another home has been described in its listing as reminiscent of "every beloved Nonna and Nonno’s home you have ever visited."
Those buyers who can afford these once-familiar family residences today tend to modernize them rather than simply move in. True time capsules, however, remain in the hands of individuals in their 80s who have lovingly maintained them since their construction.
Last year, a Reservoir home went viral when it was put on the market, largely due to its unique dolphin fountain, crafted by the late owner, Ignazio "Benny" Di Benedetto, who immigrated from Italy as a teenager.
In Sydney’s Leichhardt, the area’s Italian heritage is fading as gentrification takes hold and modern constructions replace older homes, although some original properties still stand. James Montano, director of Montano Group Leichhardt, explains, "Depending on the size of the land, they are either being divided into two, leading to the construction of new duplexes, or they are being demolished altogether for brand new homes. These older styles are becoming less desirable locally; it’s more about the opportunity for renovation now."
Despite the gradual disappearance of original Italian homes, the stories and memories tied to Italian-Australian culture continue to resonate with newer generations. This is evident in the popularity of comedic acts like Sooshi Mango and social media accounts showcasing nostalgic moments with figures like Maddie and Nonna Fina.
For filmmaker Frank Lotito, one of the driving forces behind creating "Nonno" stems from the nostalgia people are experiencing today.
As life becomes increasingly fast-paced and complicated, these homes symbolize a simpler, more joyous time. "I believe if we could encapsulate that essence and preserve it in a time capsule, it would allow future generations to glimpse that past and keep its memory alive. It’s disheartening to see these homes vanish, yet I also understand the need for modern conveniences that weren’t available back then, like dishwashers,” he mused with a chuckle.
"It’s truly a shame to witness this change."
But here’s where it gets controversial: Is it worth sacrificing these historical homes for modern living? Should we cherish the past or embrace the future? What are your thoughts? Join the conversation below!
