While paying homage to its original bones, 'Lerna' c1853 has been reimagined as a grand residence with striking architectural detail across multiple levels. Set on a prime landholding with dual street frontages, this magical sandstone palace honours Birchgrove's rich heritage while embracing a bold new style chapter.
Expansive picture windows frame lush garden vistas from every room that underscore a profound sense of privacy and sanctuary despite the home's exclusive Birchgrove address. Only one block from the water's edge and opposite Ballast Point Park, 'Lerna' enjoys views stretching across Sydney Harbour. Around the corner from Balmain Wharf and tucked within one of Birchgrove's most private enclaves, the setting is nothing short of extraordinary.
Natural sandstone anchors the home in its history, while honed marble, stone and timber are layered with bespoke joinery, curved ceilings, original brickwork and concrete, infusing the interiors with depth, texture and warmth. The interplay of raw and refined materials shape a home that is unapologetically bold and architecturally commanding.
Grand in presence yet effortless in style, this bespoke residence with a choice of formal rooms, casual living and working points, is enhanced by a private lift linking every level with ease and offering secure parking for two cars. The lower-ground is dedicated to a self-contained studio designed as an ideal guest accommodation or a teenage retreat. With its own private entrance, bathroom, laundry, Murphy bed and dressing room, it is a thoughtfully crafted space providing privacy while remaining connected to this wonderful home.
Sprawling landscaped gardens, a choice of garden alfresco areas and terraces create a setting that is both enchanting and practical. Tiered sandstone frames the outdoors from the stunning exterior of the home, creating a wonderful contrast with the modern timber and off-form concrete that is gorgeous to the eye. At its heart lies a striking swimming pool that transforms the garden into a space for entertaining and relaxing.
The gourmet marble kitchen at the heart of the home is appointed with premium appliances and a walk-in butlers pantry. It flows effortlessly to the dining space that also offers an outdoor alfresco terrace for beautiful airy dining and space to host family and friends. The luxurious bedroom suites on the upper level offer generous proportions, one with a private balcony with harbour views and a divine dressing room with custom joinery. Bathrooms are finished in full stone with bespoke concrete and timber vanities including one with a freestanding egg bathtub, delivering functional spaces defined by architectural precision and visual impact.
Commanding an exclusive Birchgrove address steeped in history and prestige, this sprawling estate is minutes to the waters edge that give it excellent connectivity to Balmain Ferry Wharf and beautiful foreshore parks with views of the iconic Sydney Harbour. It is surrounded by the finest dining and boutique shopping strip Darling Street that is well known for its excellent options ranging from cafes, Italian eateries, pharmacies, dessert stores, boutique fashion and grocers. It is an easy 4.4km to the Sydney CBD.
