This exceptional 128-year-old property has been meticulously restored to the highest standard, with every effort made to preserve its original charm and architectural integrity. Sourcing authentic features from around the world, the restoration honours the craftsmanship of Purnell & Sons, Architects and Builders of Geelong, and celebrates the home's significance as one of the earliest, if not the very first, designs by Arthur William Purnell in 1896.
The deep-set verandas that embrace the home were originally designed to shield its occupants from the sweltering summer heat, and the timeless timber details, fretwork, and decorative glazing offer a glimpse of the character-filled interior. Upon entry, high ceilings, Victorian-era reproduction wallpaper, Tasmanian Blackwood floors, intricate ceiling roses, Lincrusta wallpaper, and ornate restored chandeliers captivate the eye, showcasing the careful attention to detail that extends throughout the home.
The original layout includes a formal living room, dining room, master suite, and two guest suiteseach with an ensuite bathroomas well as an additional 4th bedroom, sitting room, and library. All rooms are adorned with 100% authentic period fixtures and fittings, meticulously selected by the current owners, whose historical expertise and creative vision bring the home's heritage to life. Throughout, working fireplaces, imported kerosene lamps from England, hand-crafted curtains from Greece, lighting from Jordan, and pull-chain toilets from the 1800sall contribute to the home's rich historical character.
The heart of the home, a chef's dream kitchen and meals area, is anchored by an exquisite La Cornue central island. This original, numbered piece, handcrafted in Paris, features both electric and gas ovens, induction cooking, gas hotplates, ample storage, and a commercial-grade sink, all complemented by a La Cornue Chateau rangehood, formerly part of Steve Vizard's kitchen. For the culinary enthusiast, an additional Kleenmaid gas and electric cooktop, grill, and deep fryer complete the space. Bespoke splashback tiling from Morocco and Jerusalem adds the finishing touch, while the adjacent commercial-grade butler's pantry includes an AG fridge and freezer, Hobart dishwasher, stainless steel benchtops, and Kleenmaid double wall ovens with warming drawer, offering convenient access to the formal dining room.
Alfresco dining is seamlessly integrated into the lifestyle, with a spacious outdoor patio, twenty irrigated wicking vegetable beds, a chicken coop, orchard, and herb garden, all supporting a true garden-to-table experience. The original 1890s underground water tank, still equipped with the founding hand pump, stores 50,000L of water plus an additional 20,000L above-ground storage, enabling sustainable living with a focus on clean, healthy living.
Further enhancing the property's sustainability, a 6.6kW solar panel system has been installed to reduce energy costs and increase environmental efficiency. A 13kW Tesla battery is included to store surplus energy for use during peak times or power outages, providing an eco-friendly and resilient energy solution. Additionally, the property has been upgraded to 3-phase power, ensuring optimal electrical capacity for modern appliances and future-proofing the home for any technological advancements. Refrigerated air conditioning has also been installed throughout the main house, offering year-round comfort while maintaining the home's heritage aesthetic.
Additional features include hydronic heating with cast iron radiators from Ballarat, including underfloor hydronic heating in the kitchen/meals area, underfloor heating in all bathrooms, a six-car garage with two adjoining studios/offices, a fifth bathroom, a well-equipped laundry, a firepit area, a monitored security system, and an inground swimming pool with a seven-person jacuzzi and cedar bathhouse.
Surrounding the home, meticulously landscaped gardens, fishponds, and numerous peaceful nooks provide the perfect settings to sit, relax, and take in the beauty of this remarkable and irreplaceable historical treasure.
With its grandeur, ample space, and exceptional location, this property also offers exciting potential for use as a stunning guest house, an exclusive Airbnb investment, or a unique venue for special events (subject to council approval). Additionally, there is potential for subdivision, allowing for further development opportunities (subject to planning regulations). Whether hosting guests, curating unforgettable gatherings, or exploring development possibilities, the timeless elegance and expansive grounds provide endless options. This rare offering presents an extraordinary opportunity to own a piece of Geelong's storied past, expertly preserved for future generations, with the added potential for profitable and creative ventures.
Please note that all information provided by Pavilion Property is in good faith and derived from sources believed to be accurate and current at the date of publication. Pavilion Property acts as a conduit for this information and advises prospective purchasers to conduct their own inquiries. Pavilion Property will not be liable for any loss resulting from actions or decisions made in reliance on the provided information.
