The stunning transformation of 9 Barkly Crescent into a modern heritage haven

When they purchased 9 Barkly Crescent in Forrest in 2017, the owners could see the potential of what was once a stately home nestled in park-like gardens in a great location.

Built in the 1920s, the property was tired and needed a lot of love and attention, but with the planned makeover came a raft of heritage approvals and building regulations.

Fast-forward six years, and Luton Properties sales agent Sophie Luton said the property was “unrecognisable”.

“I sold the property to these owners, and seeing the transformation and restoration they’ve done is absolutely incredible,” she said.

“The time, effort and money that has gone into this home is second to none.”

Sophie said when she entered the home recently, her jaw hit the floor.

“You wouldn’t even know it was the same property,” she said.

“They’ve worked sympathetically with the heritage style and transformed the home and gardens to an entirely new level.”

Set on over 2000 square metres of manicured, park-like grounds, the four-bedroom home retains its heritage charm but boasts all the amenities of a brand-new build. A new studio at the rear of the garden provides extra space for guests or extended family.

“The owners have done all the hard work and jumped through all the heritage approvals. They’ve ticked all those boxes and crafted an incredible home that’s a real credit to them,” Sophie said.

“When I first saw it, it gave me goosebumps. It’s immaculate from start to finish. Every aspect, every corner is exceptional.”

The home has benefitted from a completed renovation, while a new heated salt-water pool and stylish outdoor entertaining area are set in the centre of the property, creating a private garden oasis in one of the Inner South’s most charming tree-lined streets.

The enlarged main residence features four bedrooms, a large office, a separate lounge with a fireplace and a formal dining room. Picture windows, high ceilings and beautiful engineered blackbutt timber flooring make the home feel fresh, modern and airy all year round.

The chef’s kitchen with two Miele ovens, a built-in Liebherr fridge, Miele induction cooktop and Miele dishwasher, boasts a walk-in pantry with large pull-out larder, sink, additional fridge space, second Miele dishwasher and external access. From the extraordinary kitchen, you can take in the amazing garden views.

The sun-drenched open-plan family room flows out to the covered alfresco and pool area, while large windows invite the garden vistas inside.

The master retreat is a space to unwind after a busy day, with an incredible ensuite with bath and shower and a large separate dressing room with abundant wardrobes. It opens onto its own private garden courtyard with a water feature.

Also on this estate is a new cottage with studio/workshop facilities, bathroom and kitchenette style area with French doors opening onto a large verandah overlooking a private north-facing garden.

The top-to-bottom renovation has included new plumbing and electrics, installation of internet cabling throughout, including the studio, as well as new floor and window coverings.

Sophie said this was an opportunity for a family to purchase an immaculate and unique property where all the hard work had been done.

“People love these heritage properties, but renovating them to such a high standard requires a lot of money and hard work. This home is ideal for anyone wanting that 1927-era character and charm, but without the hassle of gaining heritage approvals and taking on such an enormous project,” she said.

Having grown up in Barkly Crescent, Sophie has an intimate knowledge of the area and is passionate about marketing this property for the second time after the makeover.

“Barkly Crescent holds a special place in my heart, and I have fond memories of walking to school along the magnificent tree-lined streets,” she said.

“I can see a family moving in and enjoying everything this home and its surrounds have to offer, and really becoming part of the friendly neighbourhood that I loved so much growing up.

“Magical memories will be created here, celebrating Christmas, birthdays and even weddings on the grounds.

“Because you have the main house and the private cottage, you can house extended family, which is what a lot of buyers are looking for.

“There’s been a good amount of top-end sales this year, and we’re expecting a lot of interest in this estate. There are definitely buyers out there wanting those premium properties, and this one ticks all the boxes.”

The fully fenced property is secure with remote-controlled electric driveway gates and is just a short walk through a picturesque neighbourhood to Manuka Village, the parliament zone and a selection of excellent schools.

9 Barkly Crescent Forrest goes to auction 10am Saturday 2 March 2024

View the full listing.

Article originally written and published by the RiotACT