24 The Strand

Mandalay presents a wonderful opportunity to own one of Williamstown's historically and architecturally significant landmark houses, held by the same family since 1945. The huge 1363m2 (approx.) corner allotment fronting The Strand and John Street, offers a flexible and inspiring development and restoration with the opportunity to incorporate contemporary and sympathetic design with history (STCA). Mandalay is representative of the grand houses that fronted Hobsons Bay during the mid 19th century, and today its central position on The Strand is regarded as one of Melbourne's premier and sought after residential addresses. Formerly known as Abberton House, the property comes with provenance. The rate books of 1856 record John Riddell as the first owner of the land. The following year saw local ship chandler, Captain William Probert, as the next owner. In 1858, Probert engaged the services of Borough Surveyor, to design his house and Charles Pinckney of Cecil St, Williamstown, as the builder. Subsequent owners and occupants of note include political figure George Frederick Verdon, school teacher and entrepreneur Charles Steedman, master mariner Captain William Hearn, Port Phillip sea pilot Captain Blanchard. Captain George Molyneux purchased the home in 1945, and today it remains in the family, ready for its next custodians. Mandalay is a two-storey residence built of basalt in the Georgian style. Notable architectural features include its symmetrical design, entry portico, well proportioned rooms, Bangor Welsh Slate and hipped roof, corniced chimneys, and all the fine internal features associated with the period. The ground floor comprises of an entry door with stained glass, grand formal sitting room, library, study, laundry, kitchen and breakfast room. The staircase leads to four bedrooms and bathroom, with breathtaking views over Hobsons Bay, St.Kilda, and the city skyline. The large garden has a number of native and deciduous trees, including a noted Canary Island Palm and Magnolia Grandiflora. Williamstown, located at the mouth of the Yarra River was Melbourne's first port settlement. Today, it is a beautifully preserved historic lifestyle suburb with a rich history and a strong sense of community. Situated only 10 kms from Melbourne's CBD, the suburb has a wonderful seaside and maritime atmosphere along with its vibrant culinary, retail, and commercial precincts. The suburb has numerous notable historic buildings, treelined streetscapes, sailing and angling clubs, foreshore walking trails and bike tracks, and opposite the popular Williamstown Beach - the Botanical Gardens, designed in 1856. There are also numerous local schools and direct bus services to many of Melbourne's and Geelong's best known private schools. Transport infrastructure includes a train service, excellent freeway links or a relaxing ferry service to the CBD. Mandalay offers an exciting and unique opportunity for an astute buyer or savvy investor to secure and restore a grand private waterfront residence on one of the largest land parcels on The Strand and/or create a truly unique development project incorporating contemporary design and history on two street frontages. The possibilities are unlimited. For further details on the property or for private inspections, contact Dominic Romeo 0438 500 277 dominicromeo@historicproperty.com.au www.historicproperty.com.au DISCLAIMER: All dimensions are approximate only. Particulars given are for general information only and do not constitute any representation on the part of the Vendor or Agent. All prospective buyers must undertake their own due diligence