AMAZING ASHLEIGH

Lauded colonial architect Henry Hunter created a masterpiece in Ashleigh and its current owner has left no stone unturned in its sympathetic and exquisite restoration.

JARRAD BEVAN

VISITING South Hobart mansion Ashleigh is a thrill.

Much more than a mere look back at Hobart’s history — although, that part is wonderful — this stately manor provides a glimpse into another world where heritage elegance meets modern sophistication.

It is an unforgettable experience.

For the property owner, the past five years have been spent carefully upgrading his 1887-built home in every way.

He has left no stone unturned, not a tiny detail in need of attention. And the result is exquisite.

Ashleigh has new wiring, plumbing, new gas fireplaces and four new bathrooms with tapware sourced from England ... But that’s just the iceberg’s tip.

From the outstanding gardens to the ballroom to the master suite that runs the full length of the top floor, there is so much to discover at Ashleigh.

Peterswald for property director Kim Morgan described the property as “phenomenal” and one of the most stately homes in Hobart.

“A home such as this, there are some Tasmanian buyers who would certainly be very interested to see it,” he said.

“Often, particularly at the moment, it would not be a surprise to see significant interstate interest, if not international inquiry.”

Designed by celebrated colonial architect Henry Hunter in the Victorian Italianate manner, Ashleigh incorporates many characteristics synonymous with the style — it has wide verandas with intricate iron lacework, corbels, decorative window surrounds and a slate roof, alongside 14foot high ceilings, ornate ceiling roses, tall French doors and beautiful fireplaces.

On entry to the home there are two grand, formal rooms with hallmark Hunter bi-fold doors dividing the original ballroom space.

Elegant fireplaces bookmark the end of each room. They resemble open log fires yet are actually gas and ignite at the touch of a button filling the rooms with ambience and warmth.

Decadent antique Baccarat and

Waterford crystal chandeliers refract light around the space.

On the other side of the hall there is a well proportioned room currently configured as a double bedroom. It could be repurposed as a home office.

The hallway extends through an arched