A grand home on a 2229sqm allotment in one of the state’s most prestigious suburbs could be the latest significant property to face the wrecking ball as the SA’s housing crisis fuels development desire across Adelaide.
The grand gentleman’s bungalow at 59a Malvern Ave, Malvern, which sits on an 83.8m long block between Cross Rd and the parallel Malvern Ave, and has 27.43m frontages on each, is currently on the market without an advertised price guide.
Selling agent Marina Ormsby of Fox Real Estate said, with interest for this grand Malvern property split 50/50 between revonators and developers, time will tell if this historic mansion is saved from the wrecking ball or bowled over to make way for “at least three” new homes.
Ms Ormsby said the property offered a rare opportunity to a savvy buyer, whatever their vision for it was.
“This property could take a bit of time to find the right person who appreciates it and is up for doing what the next step requires,” she said.
“Some people get put off by the main road, but in all honesty it’s so far back that it’s so quiet and you would have no idea that the house is fronting a main road.”
Ms Ormsby says the grand gentleman’s bungalow has already been approved for demolition but is full of character for those looking to rejuvenate it and bring it up to modern living standards.
With spectacular 3.3m ceilings and stately rooms, the home has a sweeping circular driveway and is surrounded by mature gardens.
It features five bedrooms, including a downstairs master suite with a fireplace, ensuite and direct access to a relaxing spa room.
A large kitchen has European appliances and plenty of cabinetry and adjoins a rear dining area and a formal living room, both of which open to an enclosed outdoor entertainment zone overlooking the inground pool. There is also a detached rumpus room and a cellar.
“It has been in the one family for decades but it’s time for a new chapter,” Ms Ormsby said.
“The house is actually in really good condition – it’s such a beautiful house and it’s perfectly liveable as is.
“There aren’t many homes like that left in Adelaide – it’s still got that grandeur and it’s quite original.”
While Ms Ormsby says the home would be a big project for someone keen to renovate it, she said it would be a shame to see a property like this simply knocked over and carved up.
“I’d love to see it brought back to its former glory and for someone to maintain the beautiful residence and bring it up to 2024 standards and really give it the amenities that it needs,” she said.
“Especially in the inner city, to be able to maintain these bigger parcels of land would be fantastic.”
– with Lauren Ahwan.