The late 19th century farmhouse known as ‘Mosman’ is constructed from stone and handmade bricks. The cows have now gone, along with the orchards, however, the birds still frequent the garden and the mist still rises from the green grass.

‘Mosman’ is now basking in all its restored glory after having suffered decades of neglect. When the current owner saw the poor tumble-down farmhouse with it ramshackle fibro additions, she instantly fell in love and has spent the last 20 years bringing it back to life. It has been a labour of love

The colours of richly painted rooms were inspired by the original ones discovered under layers of paint and wallpaper. The plaster ceilings with heir fancy rosettes and scrolled cornices have also been repaired or where it was necessary, recreated. The effect is one of modest grandeur as would have befitted a well off landowner in those early days.

While the interior has been restored on many levels, modern ideals of comfort have not by any means been neglected. There is underfloor heating throughout, although the open fireplaces are all operational, including the one in the en suite bathroom with its original claw foot bath.

The kitchen has been redesigned in a cosy English country cottage style. The floor is stone and one wall features original handmade bricks. A large gas stove, complete with built in barbecue and deep fryer, sits unassumingly to one side.

The owner has always been conscious of the type of house she wanted Mosman to be.
She wanted to restore its original outstanding features while making it a comfortable and contemporary home, not a museum. The idea of bringing the indoors and outdoors together resulted in French doors opening into a very private courtyard, ideal for pre dinner drinks or after dinner conversation. This theme is continued in the back yard where the English style gardens are so private and quiet.

The owner has photographically documented the restoration process and this shows how much work has been done, not only to the house itse