Retro VISION

Who needs an SUV when you could have a classic Porsche like this Melbourne family, writes motoring expert and WhichCar presenter, Elise Elliott.

- Elise Elliott

Tucked down one of inner-Melbourne’s ubiquitous graffitied laneways is a nondescript metal door. Push it open and you find yourself in a whimsical communal courtyard. Climbing roses and clematis tangle with masses of purple love-in-a-mist and Avonview lavender. Ornamental vines sprawl over exposed pipes and wrought-iron steps. The garden reflects the personal style of its owners, strategist Amara Speechley and her husband, landscape designer Cal Watson, who is the co-owner of Bespoke Landscapes.

The couple live here with their three-year-old son Vetiver and their bulldog, Pearl. Their home is one of five apartments in what was once a dairy. “We love the untamed beauty of the courtyard,” says Amara. “It’s like having our own little village green.” In contrast with the courtyard, the couple’s sleek understated apartment is decorated with authentic Mid-Century furniture – all sourced from local retailers – teamed with a carefully curated art collection.

Amara and Cal’s love of retro extends to their car, a rare 1976 Porsche 912E. After being discontinued in the ’60s, the 912 experienced a one-year renaissance: exactly 2092 were made in Germany in 1976, all of which were shipped to the US. Somehow, this gem found its way to Melbourne and these very appreciative owners. “When we brought the car home, Vetiver said he wanted to live in it,” says Amara, laughing.