A rare piece of Australian architectural history, impeccably preserved and updated for contemporary living, has come onto the market in the Hunter Valley. Virginia House at 11 Westbourne Road in Old Bolwarra is being offered with a price guide of $2.85 million.
A Journey Through Time: The History of Virginia House
The two-storey residence, noted for its restrained Victorian Italianate style, was originally constructed between 1892 and 1894 and first known as 'Ourinda House'. Its story took a significant turn in 1913 when it was purchased by merchant Ernest Twyford, who bestowed upon it the name 'Virginia House'. The property remained a cherished family home for decades, sold in 1941 to Arthur Sarroff, whose family occupied it for three generations.
The current custodians acquired the home in 2005 and embarked on a comprehensive, sympathetic restoration. This process has carefully integrated modern necessities while honouring the home's profound heritage character.
Elegance Meets Modern Comfort
Inside, the home showcases grand period features including a stately staircase and formal drawing rooms, balanced by a lounge and informal dining area for everyday living. Upstairs, large bedrooms feature marble fireplaces and Juliet balconies.
The restoration has thoughtfully introduced modern systems. The home has been fully rewired, with heritage-style cedar and brass power points and light pulls. For year-round comfort, the upper level is serviced by ducted air-conditioning, including a 7.5kW Daikin inverter unit installed in 2021.
Established Gardens and Heritage Outbuildings
The property's appeal extends across its approximately 3,120 square metre grounds. The established gardens are a highlight, featuring a diverse array of plantings such as fruit trees (lemon, mandarin, lime, apple, mulberry, and fig) and mature specimens including pine trees, Himalayan cedars, and a Japanese maple.
For recreation, there is an 11.8m x 4.2m self-cleaning, in-ground swimming pool. The estate also retains several significant heritage outbuildings:
- A barn with high bay lighting and power.
- Multiple carports.
- A coach house with a carriageway, stables, and additional rooms.
- A studio with stained-glass windows.
- An extra-large bird aviary, a fernery, and secondary aviaries.
Rhonda Nyquist, the listing agent from PRD Hunter Valley, describes the property as "immaculately and sympathetically maintained." She notes, "This grand Victorian home has a homely feel with an air of refined relaxation. With its prime location, so close to Maitland, Newcastle, the airport and Hunter Valley, Virginia House is genuinely one of the most rewarding properties anyone could hope to own."
The home offers four bedrooms, two bathrooms, and parking for six cars. Inspections are available strictly by appointment through the selling agent.
