Grand century-old home for sale
One of Eastbourne’s oldest and grandest houses is on the market with a starting price of $1.45 million.
The 260 square metre home comes with many original features, some impressive fireplaces and a great view of Wellington city. Built in 1905 by Eastbourne’s first mayor, Fred Bolton, 17 Kowhai St is a landmark house on a 1037sqm property that anyone who has been to Eastbourne will probably recognise.
As well as the fireplaces it has distinctive wrap-around verandas that provide extensive views of the harbour.
Bolton initially rented out the four-bedroom, two-bathroom house, which had large gardens and a tennis court.
Situated near the start of the Butterfly Creek walk, the two-storey wooden home is an imposing structure.
Real estate agent Kim Slessor described it as the house that everyone knows and dreams of living in.
‘‘In all the years I have been in real estate, people have always said ‘the house I love is that white villa in Kowhai St’.’’
Its current owners are looking for something smaller and are moving reluctantly after 22 years.
During that time they added an extension, supervised by heritage architect Chris Cochrane.
Slessor said there were a number of features that made the house unusual.
As well as its sheer size, it is on a hill with fabulous views but has flat land and a formal garden. The matai flooring is original and, although it has been renovated, the inside still has the feel of a grand 100-year-old home.
Slessor said the buyer would have to check the chimneys and although she is supplying a builder’s report, anyone buying the large wooden house should get their own advice.
As to who would buy such a big house, Slessor believed it would appeal to a family who could afford luxury.
‘‘It is a lovely home for a family being close to the beach and you are in the bush.’’