This heritage-listed home in the centre of Adelaide combines ornate Victorian features with inner city living in a unique opportunity for buyers.
Charles Vernon, a plasterer, occupied the house from the 1860s to 1908 and is considered responsible for the property’s stunning appearance, according to vendor Lee Waye.
“He was actually a plasterer of some note. He created the facades at 150-154 Rundle Mall around 1860,” said Ms Waye.
“Charles is also responsible for all of the scroll work in the house. It really is beautiful,” she added.
The property retains the original, high ceilings with Victorian coves and ceiling roses, as well as a central hallway with ornate Gothic arch.
“It has a wonderful majestic feeling. The fact that I am standing on floorboards that were put down in the 1800s is incredible,” said Ms Waye.
The circa 1860 property has three bedrooms and two bathrooms and is hidden behind an impressive facade and hedge fence.
“Because the architraves and skirting are all plaster the house is in very good condition,” said Ms Waye, who added that she has conducted considerable restorations.
“We put fans under the floorboards to ventilate and all new cabinetry and I concocted the garden. But the colours are original and it’s the original glass still in the windows.”
“We have a responsibility to maintain our history and heritage. By doing as much as I have this house is going to live on for decades to come.”
“I will be sad to leave it. It’s just so authentic,” she said, adding that she is moving overseas to be closer to her children and grandchildren.
Under the heritage listing, the facade of the house cannot be changed but the inside may be altered, according to selling agent, Nick Psarros of Ray White Port Adelaide.
“The house is important as a record of some of the embellishments that were used in the boom years of the city,” he said.
Situated in Adelaide’s inner city, 55 Symonds Place offers buyers the city lifestyle without the cramped apartment and strata costs.
“It’s a really nice part of the city. You are close to Veale Gardens and lots of good restaurants and funky pubs,” said Mr Psarros.
“Public transport is everywhere. There’s a tram station down the road or you can walk to the city in 10 minutes,” he said, adding that Adelaide High, Pulteney Grammar and Gilles Street Primary are among nearby schools.
He added that having two lock-up car spaces is also very rare this close to the city.
Other property features include a dry cellar, built-in wardrobes, rare Venetian glass chandeliers, formal dining with gas fire and whiskey cabinet, split system air-conditioning, security system and a heritage-style five-burner Falcon freestanding cooker.
