A stunning period gem set high on The Hill in Newcastle, this property represents inner city living at its finest.
Combining the beauty of a historic terrace facade with a sympathetic renovation that opens up the design for practical, modern living, the property is large enough for families but cosy enough for empty nesters who want to make the most of the lifestyle offered by its dress circle location.
A tightly-held community and one of the most sought-after addresses in Newcastle, The Hill is centrally positioned within walking distance of the citys key attractions.
Recent developments have revitalised Newcastles central business district, transforming it into a cosmopolitan destination with bustling bars, charming boutiques and endless dining options.
Explore the coastal beauty Newcastle is renowned for with a stroll along the Memorial Walk, located a stones throw from the propertys front door, or pack a picnic and walk round the corner to enjoy the acres of landscape gardens and panoramic ocean views on offer at King Edward Park.
A trip to the beach is as simple as a saunter down the hill, while those who enjoy stretching their legs a little more can extend their walk along Bathers Way in both directions to either Merewether Baths or all the way round to Nobbys Beach.
However, the propertys appeal isnt just based on its ideal positioning.
Built in 1890 and named Curragh after the famous Irish racecourse, the home was magnificently remodelled around 10 years ago with an interior design that seamlessly blends period features with more contemporary elements.
Clipped hedges, a stately rendered brick and iron fence and twin water fountains provide a fitting front yard for this turn-of-the-century property, while arched windows with leadlight inserts and a filigree iron balustrade on the upper balcony complete its classic kerb appeal.
The history of the home has been perfectly preserved in the original parts of the terrace, with period features including high skirting boards, picture rails and decorative ceiling roses, as well as the original pull-chain mechanism for much of the lighting and two non-working fire places with marble mantle.
Coffered ceilings in the front entry rooms and beautifully turned timber balusters on the staircase continue the heritage ambience, while the use of antique style chandeliers and feature light fittings throughout add to the feeling of grandeur.
Elegant without being ostentatious, the terrace has a luxurious yet homely feel that is both warm and inviting.
Rich jarrah timber floorboards inject warmth into the grand entry foyer and the open plan living areas on the lower level, while plush new carpet in soft neutral tones give the bedrooms and formal living room a soft and sumptuous feel.
The two storey split level home includes a formal living space, as well as a versatile front room accessible from the foyer which could easily be used as a fourth bedroom or sitting room. An attractive light-filled room with its large leadlight window and opulent marble surround fireplace, it would also be ideally suited as a private home office, with built-in cabinetry including shelving, cupboards and a painted timber bench running in an L-shape along two of the walls.
A second fireplace with the same stunning marble surround is the eye-catching centrepiece of the formal living room, which is cosy enough to curl up with your favourite book but spacious enough to host a small group of ladies for an intimate tea party.
A wide square set opening creates a seamless flow from this area to the open plan kitchen, dining and family room with unfettered sightlines ensuring the living areas feel connected despite the difference in floor heights.
Clean lines and shaker style cabinetry have been used to create an elegant kitchen ideally suited to a home of this era while still featuring contemporary fittings and luxury fixtures.
An expansive island bench and breakfast bar help to define the space while also providing the ideal spot for a casual bite to eat, with both overhead and underbench cabinetry and gleaming 30mm Caesarstone benchtops ensuring there is ample storage and preparation space around the perimeter of the kitchen.
Matte black fittings provide a stylish accent that contrasts beautifully with the overall neutral tones of the kitchen, from the custom gooseneck tapware on the sink, to the stunning crystal-look chandelier hanging from the ceiling, while quality stainless steel appliances including a 900mm oven and five-burner gas cooktop ensure the space is practical as well as elegant.
A large dining space opposite the kitchen is ideal for entertaining with room enough to accommodate an eight-seater table, while the open plan layout also flows through to spacious family room with a wired-in surround sound system that makes it ideal for parties or watching the latest blockbuster movie.
A double sliding door at the far end of this room provides access to the tiled undercover area, allowing you to take your entertaining outdoors, with a frameless glass balustrade providing an unimpeded view of the rear yard. A versatile glass-walled room with glass louvered windows at the side of the house provides another transition space between the indoor and outdoor zones, which could be used as a separate sitting room or even a dedicated space for pampered pets.
Another set of steps leads down to a charming grassed courtyard surrounded by lush green vines that provides an unexpected natural oasis in the midst of this inner city setting, while slatted screens and established trees on the boundaries of the neighbouring properties enhance the privacy of the space.
This picturesque space is also visible from a small Juliet balcony attached to the master suite, which is located on one of the upper levels of the terrace.
The main bedroom is a true parents retreat, separated from the remaining two bedrooms by a private hallway.
A truly luxurious space, it includes a stunning ensuite with floor-to-ceiling tiles, semi-frameless shower recess and his and hers vanity, as well as both a walk-in wardrobe and twin built-in wardrobes for more storage space than you could ever need.
Storage is also a major feature of the two upstairs bedrooms, with two built-in wardrobes in each.
The double-sized bedroom, which provides access to the balcony at the front of the home, is a truly impressive space with ample room for two double beds. A built-in desk nook has been created between the two wardrobes and extensive custom shelving and cabinetry has been installed on the front wall, while a fold-down ladder provides access via a manhole to a fully sealed attic for additional storage space.
The remaining bedroom is also generously-proportioned, with a small Juliet balcony on one side allowing you to enjoy the cool ocean breezes, while taking in the view to King Edward Park.
Ceiling fans and split-system air conditioners in almost every room of the house ensure it remains temperate and comfortable all year round, while the northerly sun streaming through the windows keep the rooms naturally warm in winter.
Situated on a low maintenance 342sqm block, the property includes a surprising amount of off-street parking for such a prime inner city address, with a double detached garage at the rear of the block and a concrete driveway with room to accommodate several cars down its length.
SMS 7High to 0428 166 755 for a link to the on-line property brochure.
