A peculiar week where I found it a little tricky to find a home for 'House Snoop' that was Palatial Living worthy - hence a day later in the week for this post... Maybe I was being incredibly picky this week, and maybe I expected more 'wow' homes to be on the market now that 'Spring' real estate is open season! But the good news is that I did find a home that has an incredible history and a Palatial outlook! This magnificent home 'Highlands' in Wahroonga on Sydney's leafy Upper North Shore was built by [John] Horbury Hunt for retailing merchant Alfred James Hordern, and his wife Caroline, and I had to delve into it more...
You see I grew up with tales of Anthony Hordern and the Anthony Hordern's Department store from my Grandmother whose own Grandmother was involved in a family business, J.Robins & Sons [shoe makers of Australian brands Sandler & Red Robins, & now other labels such as Jane Debster etc.] in-turn used to frequent the Sydney society balls with the Hordens, the Grace Brothers and another big retailer of the time The Foy's of Mark Foy's department store. I have an old Horden's powder & hosiery box from my Great Great Grandmother which I keep special old ribbons in. Take a look and see what you think...
'Highlands' - a fine residence by famed architect John Horbury Hunt
In a whisper quiet east side location just minutes walk to [private schools] Abbotsleigh, Knox, village shops and the train station. Private 3,585M (approx 1 acre) grounds with room for tennis court, pool and plenty of space for children to play. Built for Alfred James Hordern, a retail merchant, and his wife Caroline, Highlands is one of the finest examples of Horbury Hunt"s shingled homes, characterised by recessed verandahs, large timber pillars, fine brick chimney stacks and pyramidal roof lines.
The house features high ceilings, polished timber floors, open fireplaces, a grand staircase and gracious formal rooms. Many original fixtures and fittings are retained, including unique stained glass windows. The original staff quarters now house a modern kitchen, laundry and informal dining area. Other structures on the property include a long shed, extra large two car garage and a wishing well. This well-maintained family home is surrounded by beautiful established gardens and several patios, which offer peaceful, private settings for entertaining and relaxing.
First time offered in over 30 years. A once in a lifetime opportunity to secure a historically significant family home.
Domain.com.au Property ID: 2008227858
Images via Domain.com.au & Luschwitz
What can one see, except 'wow'!
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