Hallgreen at No.59 Montagu St, New Norfolk needs its next custodian. Picture: Supplied
A home of this size, stature and historical significance rarely comes to the market.
There are not very many of them, and once you are the custodian, naturally you would want to enjoy that for a long time.
However, this week, historic Hallgreen in New Norfolk has been offered for sale, creating an enticing opportunity for its next owner.
Deb Stephens, senior consultant at EIS Property, described it as an “irreplaceable” property with a 200-year history.
“Hallgreen is one of Tasmania’s most impressive historic properties,” she said.
“It was originally home to Sir Robert Officer — a surgeon and politician — who was the first medical practitioner in the Derwent Valley.
“Since 1925, Hallgreen has been a landmark property, and a stunning showcase of Old Colonial Georgian architecture.
“When people come to inspect the property, they will discover an amazing sense of seclusion and privacy.
“Despite its stately size — originally built for a family of 13 — people can drive right past and not even know it is there. That’s quite remarkable.”
No.59 Montagu St, New Norfolk.
No.59 Montagu St, New Norfolk.
No.59 Montagu St, New Norfolk.
Mrs Stephens said the home’s upstairs level has to be seen to be believed.
“Downstairs is like stepping back in time, with rustic flagstone floors, original windows and a central hallway with rooms off it,” she said.
“The upper level is opulent and luxurious. It’s a complete contrast, but with owners that appreciate the depth of the history of the property, they have been respectful in every aspect of the renovation.
“You can’t replace a property like this. It’s an important part of Tasmania’s history.”
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No stone has been left unturned in the transformation of the home, including stunning chandeliers and French oak Versailles-pattern floorboards.
The list of features and improvements is extensive and includes automatic external perimeter lighting, monitored security, smoke alarms and camera systems, double roof insulation, reticulated lawns, automatic gates and upgraded services.
No.59 Montagu St, New Norfolk.
No.59 Montagu St, New Norfolk.
The gourmet kitchen is gorgeous with its white onyx benchtops, Smeg cooker with gas hobs and three electric ovens, English tapware faucet and sink, plus custom-made cabinetry completed by a spacious butler’s pantry.
Open-plan for the practicalities of everyday living, this spacious living area opens out onto one of the two balconies, drawing you out to the magnificent gardens below.
The main bedroom has a luxurious ensuite and an adjoining walk-through dressing room with mirrored built-in wardrobes. A door opens to a private garden courtyard.
The three additional bedrooms each feature original working fireplaces. The current owners have used the second bedroom as a formal dining room.
No.59 Montagu St, New Norfolk.
No.59 Montagu St, New Norfolk.
No.59 Montagu St, New Norfolk.
The formal lounge is ornately grand with its pressed tin ceiling, large fireplace, hand-finished curtains, a new chandelier and bay windows.
Every room faces a view of the river, valley and surrounding hilltops, with warm sunlight captured through picture windows.
Hallgreen is located on the banks of the River Derwent, surrounded by over 5700sq m of private gardens.
The grounds are secure and fully fenced, with a huge lawn area, and an ornate fountain.
It is filled with a variety of fruit trees, herbs, flowering plants, horse chestnut trees and established pines. A Magnolia tree is one of Tasmania’s oldest.
No.59 Montagu St, New Norfolk.
No.59 Montagu St, New Norfolk.
No.59 Montagu St, New Norfolk.
Mrs Stephens said a property such as this would attract inquiries from far and wide, local and interstate purchasers.
“The buyer will be somebody who appreciates the beautiful history of this home and its expansive gardens,” she said.
Hallgreen will be sold by expressions of interest above $3.85m, closing March 26. Contact Deb Stephens to arrange a private inspection.
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