Florence Villa :: Romance And Splendour On Blackwattle Bay
Holding a significant place in Sydney’s maritime history, Florence Villa has been part of the waterfront landscape since 1875 and today stands as a gracious reminder of the past in the rapidly transforming Blackwattle Bay precinct. The Picturesque Gothic meets Italianate style Victorian estate rests behind a gated flagstone forecourt on a north facing 612sqm waterfront reserve landholding with a 14m frontage to the harbour spectacle.
A Significant Waterfront Estate
Florence Villa was designed as his own residence by Ambrose Thornley Jnr, a master builder who played an influential role in shaping Glebe’s architectural landscape and is best known for Glebe Town Hall which he designed just a few years later in 1880. Thornley’s signature design flourishes and Beaux Arts influences are showcased to striking effect in the mansion’s elaborate symmetrical facade, ornate bay windows and soaring 3.6m ceilings.
Grand interiors and fine period craftsmanship are served up with spectacular views over the harbour and sun-drenched gardens complete with a flagstone terrace and sandstone-framed European inspired gardens. Easily accessible, Florence Villa is conveniently located within close proximity of the CBD. The significance of the spot is honoured by a large crane which marks the site of the historic Stride’s Yard which was conserved by the city in 2010 and serves to celebrate Sydney’s past and as a landmark on the Blackwattle Bay foreshore.
Two Historic Homes On One Title
Although an important part of the city’s past growth, the property is placed for the future and been sympathetically restored and revived as a unique compound that’s now ready for a new chapter. With only ever a handful of families in ownership, the gated compound features two properties on one title with a four-bedroom principal residence and The Stables, a separate converted stable house that is considered part of the main house and is designed as the ultimate multi-functional asset. Two self-contained levels can accommodate everything from private dwellings or guest cottages to a boutique design studio, professional suites, artist’s gallery or wellbeing space. A rarity in the area, the compound has parking for 4 cars. The possibilities are endless and the opportunity extraordinary.
Florence Villa is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to secure an outstanding property in a truly remarkable waterfront setting that’s transforming into a world-class destination, anchored by the new Sydney Fish Markets that heralds an exciting new direction for this vibrant city fringe precinct.
For more information please contact Matthew Hayson or David Carrozza
