Mansion’s next move

A mansion of this size, stature, history and position simply does not hit the market very often — now there is a chance to chart its next chapter, writes Jarrad Bevan.

THE chance to secure an 18-bedroom mansion in one of Tasmania’s finest suburbs doesn’t come along every day. In the case of Derwent Court, in leafy Fitzroy Pl, it had been held by one owner for over almost four decades before its recent sale, which settled late last year.

Now, due to a change in circumstances that offered the owners an exciting opportunity, it has returned to the market.

EIS Property senior property consultant Deb Stephens said it was an opportunity too good to refuse that had come knocking at her vendor’s door.

“They had engaged an architect who specialises in heritage homes with the plan to restore this amazing property back to its original configuration,” she said. “But a property interstate that they never imagined would hit the market, did, and so their plans are now moving in a new direction.”

Ms Stephens said it was fair to describe Derwent Court as a unique property in its size, stature and potential.

“It is something that does not come along often,” she said.

No.20 Fitzroy Pl, Sandy Bay was built around 1900 and extended up until the late 1970s.

Derwent Court was once a 15room residence — constructed for a Mr Gray, manager of the Cascade Brewery — named Manor Court at the time.

The grounds once boasted a tennis court, coachman's cottage, and a housemaid’s flat.

Around 1960, Manor Court was converted into a nursing home.

This use continued with different owners until 1979 onwards, when it was remodelled and extended to become the place it is today.

In 1984, the nursing home was renamed Derwent Court, a name that has been etched into the history books.

All of the mansion’s rooms are big.

The stately feel flows from the original to the more recent extension, although there is a clear delineation between the two.

Architectural period features have been retained in much of the original part of this historic residence, showcasing stunning timber coffered ceilings, exposed rafters, leadlight windows, the original tower rooms, huge bay windows, ornate ceiling decorations and rose, timber wainscoting and dados, and the detailed timber fireplace surround including a mantel and shelving in the entrance.

Three living areas plus a designated dining room on the lower level can be used to accommodate the vast collection of 13 bedrooms on this floor.

A central commercial-style kitchen with stainless steel benches services the dining room across the corridor.

A beautiful staircase leads upstairs to the additional two living areas and upstairs sitting room, complete with the stunning original leadlight and arched window frames.

Water views from the front lounge on this upper level are a pleasant surprise, while the abundance of natural light is something that flows throughout the entire building.

Resting on 2152sq m of expansive level grounds, the building is set back on the land, allowing in excess of 10 vehicles on-site at any time.

The size of the land surrounding this building provides a blank canvas.

A huge 196sq m basement provides excellent access to under the house as well as ample storage.

Ms Stephens said Derwent Court needs to be seen to appreciate the size and the location.

“This piece of Tasmanian history is ready for the next owner to become the new “caretaker” for decades to come,” she said.

The current owners’ plans to restore the property — preliminary drawings — are available to the next owner if desired.

No.20 Fitzroy Pl, Sandy Bay is listed for sale with EIS Property, it is priced in the $3.9m-plus range.