9 Harcourt Street, Hawthorn East

Gracing the eminent Harcourt Estate’s elite high-ground enclave, this magnificent Victorian mansion built by distinguished architect John Beswicke in 1887 stands as a testament to landmark family grandeur on a north-facing rear, 1874 sqm approx.allotment. Originally known as ‘Chelmsford’, this substantial residence with an illustrious Italianate façade is superbly set beyond a recently-resurfaced N/S tennis court presenting a truly rare family lifestyle opportunity. Marble steps from a circular driveway ascend to a grand entrance where hand-painted stained glass and a double-arched hallway introduce an interior of immediate opulence and refinement. Two expansive formal rooms, each with towering sash or arched glazing and ornate fireplaces, provide gracious reception and entertaining space, while just nearby is a fitted executive study and a powder room. A sweeping staircase highlighted by a glorious stained-glass window leads to an extensive upper level where five bedrooms are superbly arranged, including a lavish rear main suite featuring a private balcony, integrated dressing area and an ensuite appointed with a spa bath and oversized double shower. Complemented by a versatile retreat/library, there are also two further bathrooms along with a separate toilet, ensuring family functionality matches the scale of the excellent accommodation. The ground-floor layout expands into an impressive rear family zone bathing in natural light where a vast open-plan living and dining area beneath soaring glazing and a two-level void incorporates a substantial living and dining area including a marble-surround fireplace and extensive built-in cabinetry. An adjoining kitchen is appointed with curved granite benchtops, dual integrated dishwashers, Gaggenau cooking appliances, a generous island, and a fully fitted walk-in pantry. A large laundry with extensive storage enhances day-to-day efficiency, while beyond it a further bathroom and adjoining storeroom add flexibility for busy households. Privately accessed via French doors, a fully self-contained apartment delivers exceptional two-level independence with its own living/meals area and kitchenette, separate bedroom with built-in robes, ensuitebathroom and heating/cooling - an ideal arrangement for extended family, guests or live-in staff. At the rear is a private resort-like setting framed by established greenery and classical architectural elements. A huge terrace edged by columns and climbing wisteria is a secluded idyll for outdoor dining and large-scale gatherings, before a swimming pool embraced by palms and lush plantings, and a high-walled courtyard offering an additional sheltered retreat. All combined, this impressive oasis delivers a series of outdoor areas that complement the stature and scale of the property. Further appointments include comprehensive heating and cooling, alarm system, ducted vacuum, extensive storage, towering ceilings with decorative detailing, and expansive glazing, along with a massive underground garage. An unparalleled opportunity in one of the city’s most exclusive pockets, this iconic mansion set amidst enchanting gardens is enviably located near leading private and primary schools, Glenferrie Road and Camberwell Junction shopping precincts, parklands and transport.