'Rolvenden' will steal the hearts of everyone who walks through its gates. It is an absolute triumph of beautiful, respectful, cohesive design and it's almost impossible not to want to pause every few steps just to enjoy it.
Rolvenden's always been a significant home in Brighton, a stately Victorian, built in the 1880s for the wealthy tobacco merchant and philanthropist Joseph Kronheimer. It was one of Middle Brighton's early prominent estates, and it remains so to this day. It sweeps over approx. 1975sqm, which is a remarkable landholding in this very tightly held precinct. Here, cars tend to remain in their garage because everything is walkable chic Church Street, some of Melbourne's finest schools and the famous Brighton Beach and baths.
The 'Rolvenden' of today emerged in 2017, after a two-year rework under the direction of Robson Rak, a firm renowned for its special genius in reawakening heritage homes and in this one they outdid themselves.
The magnificently proportioned entrance, hallway and front rooms have been masterfully reimagined, their striking 4.2 metre ceilings, ornate cornices, leadlight windows and marble fireplaces brought to life with sumptuous new finishes and amenities. Its configured currently as five bedrooms, including one of the most vast and romantic principal suites imaginable, four bathrooms and a gorgeous study, that could very easily change to a sixth bedroom.
Beyond is the new section, though exactly where the threshold from classic the contemporary occurs is almost imperceivable it's just been so well done. The pavilion style extension is a place of light, space, warmth, style and relaxation, with a suite of skilfully separated and yet connected living spaces and a beautifully appointed kitchen zone. The palate is soft and sophisticated. Creamy oak, limestone, and fully retractable floor to ceiling louvred glass walls drink in the stunning grounds, gardens and the exquisitely converted outbuilding which now serves as a picturesque triple garage and summer house with a fun teenage retreat that opens to heated pool and spa and expansive upstairs guest quarters.
By any measure 'Rolvenden' is one of the most complete homes you will find anywhere. It is testament to what can happen when commitment, capacity, talent and taste come together in the right place at the right time.
