Architecture is not about space but about time. A building is a vessel of its time and place, and thus reflects the values and ideals of that era.” - Robin Boyd

The passion for heritage properties was planted in Dominic Romeo at an early age. Sent to boarding school as a young boy, he was surrounded by the grandeur of heritage architecture - loggias, timber-panelled libraries, courtyards, and sprawling sporting ovals. The charm of that place, far removed from the modest new brick home of his childhood in Melbourne’s western suburbs, left a lasting impression. "That early exposure planted a seed," he says, reflecting on the genesis of his lifelong obsession with preserving Australia’s historic estates.

With over 35 years of experience in restoring heritage properties, Dominic has become a leading figure in Australia’s niche market of heritage real estate. But his path to this unique specialisation wasn’t immediately clear. After working in real estate from 2009, it was a moment of frustration in 2014 that became a turning point. Dominic realised that agents selling heritage properties often lacked the specialised knowledge to answer crucial questions, leaving buyers in the dark. "Heritage properties come with complexities - interacting with regulatory authorities, obtaining permits, restoration costs," he explains. "And agents couldn’t address those challenges."

It was then that Dominic decided to
carve out his own space. With a wealth of experience, a BA in Fine Art Photography, and a BA in Business, Dominic combined his background in art, conservation, and real estate to establish Circa Heritage and Lifestyle Property, Australia’s only real estate agency specialising in heritage properties. The mission? To help both buyers and sellers navigate the intricate web of heritage property transactions with confidence.

His work is far more than a transactional process. Dominic is a storyteller at heart, bringing the histories of Australia’s grand estates to life. "The social history of a house tells us about its identity and soul," he says. "Discerning heritage property buyers are looking for trophy properties with provenance." His marketing is steeped in research, often delving deep into archives to uncover the stories of the people and events that once animated the grand mansions and humble cottages he sells.

One of the most challenging aspects of restoring historic homes, he admits, is simply finding them. "Finding an unrestored historic property is perhaps the most challenging aspect," he says. Over the years, he and his wife have embarked on countless restoration projects, each one presenting its own unique set of challenges. "Rupertswood in Sunbury was one of the most difficult," Dominic recalls, speaking of the 50-room mansion, one of Australia’s most significant. "The project encompassed everything that
a serious restoration offered."

One of his most satisfying restorations, however, was Karori, an 1888 Mount Macedon property that had been untouched for decades. "It was a time capsule," he says, describing the overgrown six-acre garden and the untouched interior, which revealed a glimpse into Australia’s past. By the time they had finished restoring both house and garden, Dominic and his team had recorded 122 significant trees and uncovered over 300 historical photographs. This was preservation at its most vital, a tangible link between the past and the present.

Balancing the need for modern comfort with the desire to preserve historical integrity is an essential part of Dominic’s approach. "Period properties exude character and charm, but they must accommodate the needs of a modern lifestyle," he explains. For Dominic, this means blending the old and new, incorporating beautiful cabinetry, modern amenities, and abundant light, while retaining key architectural features that speak to the property's historical importance.

His work has had a profound impact not only on individual homeowners but also on Australia’s broader real estate market. "We are losing approximately 800 heritage and character houses per week throughout Australia," Dominic says, a fact that motivates him to continue his work in preservation. These houses, he argues, are not just homes; they are physical embodiments of cultural heritage, carrying with them the stories and identities of entire communities.

Looking to the future, Dominic is excited about the continued growth of Circa Heritage and Lifestyle Property. He is working on an educational booklet, "The Art of Selling Heritage Property," to help buyers and sellers navigate the complexities of this niche market. His work ethic, combined with a deep knowledge of heritage properties and a commitment to their preservation, has made him a sought-after expert in Australia. As he looks ahead, Dominic’s aspirations remain clear: to continue preserving Australia’s rich architectural heritage, one house at a time.

Dominic Romeo
@theconstantrenovatoraus
circaheritageandlifestyle.com.au

 Story by Mahmood Fazal
Photos by Chris Turner