56 Lilly Street, Sherwood has hit the market.
A heritage Queenslander commissioned in 1906 by the daughter of a Queensland Premier is up for sale, offering a significant piece of Brisbane’s early residential history.
The six-bedroom house at 56 Lilly St, Sherwood was commissioned by Jessie Maggie Gostling, daughter of three-time Queensland Premier Sir Thomas McIlwraith, after she bought almost 1ha and built the substantial timber home.
Jessie’s husband, Fanshawe Derby Le Marchant Gostling, a former British artillery officer, served as Chairman of the Sherwood Shire Council from 1910 to 1918, the longest tenure in the council’s history.
The heritage-listed residence is historically known as Benaraby.
56 Lilly Street, Sherwood.
The heritage-listed residence, historically known as Benaraby, sits on 2,738sq m and reflects the scale of the grand estates that once characterised Brisbane’s early suburban development.
Current owner Rose Deo said the family had been drawn to the property because of its history and architectural character.
“We’ve always loved heritage homes and the craftsmanship they represent,” Ms Deo said.
“When we purchased the house, we wanted to enhance the beauty of what was already there, particularly through the gardens, landscaping and interior styling.”
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The home has been thoughtfully enhanced over the years.
The kitchen.
Over the past two years the family has refined elements of the property including landscaping, styling and interior finishes, introducing high-quality drapery and decorative detailing that complement the home’s heritage features.
“We honestly didn’t think we would only be here for two years; we’re sad to be selling,” Ms Deo said.
“It’s been a beautiful family home for us, but horses are a huge part of our lives, so we’ve purchased acreage where we can have the horses at home.”
The Deo family, who have four children, will relocate to the new property to pursue their shared passion for equestrian sport.
One of the outdoor entertaining areas.
Marketing agents Sarah Hackett and Ann-Karyn Fraser of Place New Farm said the property carried a remarkable historical narrative.
“It is not often you see a home with such strong historical associations,” Ms Hackett said.
“The home has benefited from careful upgrades over time, ensuring its heritage character remained intact while allowing it to function as a modern family residence.”
Ms Hackett said homes from this period were originally built on large estates, many of which were gradually subdivided as Brisbane grew.
“This property still reflects the sense of space and grandeur those early homes were designed around.”
The pool.
Ms Fraser said the home had been thoughtfully enhanced over the years with great respect for the original architecture.
“It retains the craftsmanship and proportions of a classic Queenslander, while offering the lifestyle and comfort families expect today.”
The residence retains many defining architectural features including polished timber floors, VJ walls, French doors, decorative timber joinery and high ceilings.
Historic elements sit alongside contemporary living spaces.
These historic elements sit alongside contemporary living spaces including an open-plan living and dining area anchored by an original Federation-era stone fireplace and custom library shelving.
Outside, there are landscaped gardens, an in- ground swimming pool, pavilion and a full-size tennis court with its own entertaining pavilion and wet bar.
The property is being offered for sale via top offer closing March 26.
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