This unique, character-filled Sydney sandstone terrace is a jewel in the crown of leafy Woollahra, situated in a sought after tree-lined location. Tucked away from the bustle of Queen St, the elegant three level home offers the best of both worlds – a tranquil country house in the vibrant heart of Woollahra with its cosmopolitan lifestyle of cafes and restaurants, art galleries, fashion and antiques.
The solid and honest house was built in the 1860s by the Yorkshire stonemason, John Holdsworth, as his own family home. He had sailed from England with his wife in 1858 on board The Switzerland’, and lovingly built this family home from locally quarried Sydney sandstone with no less than five (still working) fireplaces.
On the street level adjoining sitting and dining rooms feature two grand stone fireplaces, a French chandelier and limed floorboards. The streamlined kitchen is light and bright with a stainless steel Ilve stove and Smeg dishwasher. Louvre windows always afford a wonderful breeze and view of the deep picturesque garden.
The garden features a magnificent Jacaranda tree, with walls of weathered sandstock bricks supporting vines and sweet peas and a perfect perch for sun-loving birds. Mature camellias flank one wall, while morning sun floods a bed of annuals.
Wake to bird song as the morning sun gently bathes the main bedroom with light. Two sets of French doors open onto a sunny balcony – perfect for morning tea. Wide old polished floorboards, a Victorian fireplace and antique chandelier imbue the bedroom with tranquility and elegance.
The second bedroom with a simple fireplace, French doors and a chandelier has the luxury of its own private balcony with expansive district views, set high above the garden.
The light-filled bathroom has French doors opening onto a balcony, an antique claw-foot bath, painted floorboards and skylight, catching the full glory of the jacaranda in bloom.
The cosy basement features a baronial stone fireplace, stone walls and antique French shutters at the window. A real retreat for reading and TV, or a third bedroom/study.
The roomy second bathroom/laundry is newly renovated with stone-tile floors, shower and snuggly fitted French antique shutter with its original faded paint.
No detail has been overlooked, integrating the outside world with the interior to create a stylish home filled with robust character and serene elegance.