For the past 22 years, the Mangers have run a globally recognised enterprise from the 107sqm storefront, distributing bagpipes, drums, and tailored kilts and jackets worldwide under the St Kilda Group banner.
The business holds a deeply sentimental connection for the family.
“Karen’s mother was a traditional kilt maker back in Scotland, and when she moved to Australia, she continued her craft,” Mr Manger said.
“Coincidentally, her mother used to live in the house down the road from this property.
“When we drove past years ago, the site - which used to be the old Madsons corner store before Woolworths opened down the road - had been sitting abandoned for 15 years. We knew it was meant to be."
Mr Manger said every traditional kilt takes his wife about 10 to 12 hours of intricate, manual hand-stitching.
“Our business grew from supplying local pipe bands to outfitting major private schools in Melbourne, Sydney, and Perth, and even supplying the Australian Defence Force.
“This property has been incredibly good to us, offering the perfect balance of a functional retail space and a beautiful home, but now that we are in our mid-60s, it's time to hand over the reins.”
The property has an eclectic architectural history, Mr Manger said.
“The residential home dates back to 1946, while the storefront was added in 1952,” he said.
To make room for the commercial addition, the entire Queenslander was physically rolled back on logs to the rear of the 607sqm block.
Since taking ownership, the Mangers have meticulously renovated the property, lifting the home to create two completely self-contained living areas.
