VENDOR COMMITTED ELSEWHERE - MUST BE SOLD
For the first time in over 20 years, we are proud to introduce ‘Regents Park’ to the market. This is one of The Hunter’s most interesting properties having been lovingly renovated and landscaped over the past two decades.
The typical early Victorian columned classical portico and wrap around verandah hide a remarkable treasure within!
Entering on the ground level, the long central hallway with a grand arched ceiling divides the entertaining areas from quiet, reflective spaces.
The stately double size drawing room is defined by a square set opening finished with detailed varnished cedar panelling. The impressive open fireplace is dressed with a Georgian cedar surround. Above it sits a carved Cedar framed mirror. Four sets of French Cedar doors open onto the verandah with an arrangement of shutters to adjust the amount of light and privacy. Gas wall lights give a warm glow at night. Alternatively, two antique style brass chandeliers can illuminate the room.
A monumental set of varnished Cedar doors open into the formal dining room. An identical fireplace with a splendid gilded Victorian mantle mirror above is a focal point. Again, gas wall lights and two brass chandeliers adorn the room. The space offers dining for 12 or more comfortably and plaster walls painted in an authentic Venetian red create a rich, sumptuous atmosphere.
Across the hall is a magnificent library that was conceived and designed by the current owner. Solid Cedar panelling rescued from the former Federal Government offices in Phillip Street in Sydney including a bookcase from the office of 5 Prime Ministers has been carefully installed to house a vast collection of books. Another identical Cedar fire mantle is in the library. The private study is connected to the library via a set of double doors. The large opening maintains a strong visual connection between the two spaces. A wealth of French doors and tall windows allow the afternoon sun to bathe this wonderful space in soft natural lighting.
Toward the end of the entry hall, an architecturally correct Cedar staircase winds up to the upper floor lit by a grand arched window. The entire floor enjoys abundant natural light from the detailed, oval skylights.
Beyond the hallway is an impressive double height glazed conservatory. Beneath the soaring glass ceiling is a Minstrel’s Gallery with cast iron balustrading and a Zen type casual living room with French doors to a raised external verandah. Twin polished cedar stairs with custom made timber handrail ending in the “monkey tail” lead down to the stone paved patio area on the garden level that’s nurtured by morning sun.
The tranquillity of this delightful space is accentuated by the singing birds in the gardens. Three sets of elaborate double doors (one early Colonial Indian) with glazed upper fanlights lead onto an exterior paved alfresco area. Ambient trickling water to a fish pond is calming and surrounding mature trees protect this peaceful escape.
Overlooking the verandah is a large traditional timber kitchen with a generously sized walk-in pantry. Granite benchtops provide plenty of preparation space and ample storage beneath. The adjacent separate laundry provides a large walk-in cupboard for additional storage space.
Further storage space is available under the home and the cool, solid cellar is an ideal space to store a valuable wine collection without concern.
A Cedar library alcove on the upper level offers a quiet contemplative rest on the landing where a large cedar walk-in linen closet is conveniently located.
The substantial master suite is accessed via a private office and showcases an East facing ‘Juliette Balcony’ with huge windows framing the gardens beyond. The extravagant bedroom with large walk-in dressing room and Italian Carrara marble ensuite with a claw foot bath tub plus underfloor heating provide a luxuriously pleasant retreat.
Off the opposite side of the landing is a guest wing and third bedroom that share their own marble tiled bathroom with a claw foot bath tub. The guest wing has an adjoining informal lounge that leads to another East facing balcony overlooking the gardens.
This is one of Maitland’s most fascinating gardens sustaining a variety of birds and lizards (for natural pest control)as well as some rare species of flora. Unfolding behind the residence, the gardens are completely obscured from the road. Wide steps lead from the paved alfresco area down to the swimming pool with adjacent shower. The pool is surrounded by tall brick walls creating the perfect private oasis. Paving around the pool provides a delightful protected sunbathing opportunity. At the far end of the pool, a series of jets spout water into the pool, for a relaxing spa experience.
Further down the brick stairway is a parterre garden with box hedging and lavender bushes. Its central feature is an iron armillary sphere covered in ivy which was hand forged by master craftsman, Folko Kooper in Tasmania for ‘Dysart House’. The adjacent lily pond with a cast iron tiered fountain supported by cast swans is reminiscent of a formal early Gardenesque ornament.
Beyond the excavated lake (waiting to fill) is the formal cottage and cacti garden with a picturesque central rill. An avenue of plain trees leads to the rear vehicle access on the far side of the property. Another avenue of Manchurian Pear trees gives a magnificent show of blossom in early Spring and an impressive array of amber colours in Autumn. The acreage also includes a newly planted rain forest and paddocks at the rear that would be well suited to equine activities or a nursery enterprise among other things.
This is a once in a lifetime opportunity to enjoy an exotic lifestyle whilst inhabiting this enchanting estate.
It is easy to forget you are right in the middle of Maitland once inside the boundary of ‘Regents Park’. Its magic transports you to a whole other time and place!
For further information contact Hunter River Realty Group Ben Towers 0413 912 433.
