“It is seldom that a home with such distinctive architecture and influence is seen on the market these days,” says Gareth Edwards, who operates from the Rawson Constantia franchise.
The manor house on the property, which is an excellent example of early Victorian architecture with Gothic detailing, is linked to the old coach house by a single storey crenelated walkway. The buildings are situated on a double plot of 1190 m² on Copeland Avenue.
The house and outbuildings, says Edwards, were established in the late 19th century and mirror elements of other Gothic Revival and High Victorian villas in the surrounding area. The upper floor’s double-doors (with teak arched fanlights above) open onto a north-facing wooden veranda with distinctive neo-Gothic decorative detailing. Below the veranda is a half-hipped gable, overlooking a large garden which is characterised by mature trees, birds and old plants.
Elements of the property are noticeable in a number of very similar High Victorian villas that were established in Rondebosch during the 1880s, most of which by newly retired mining magnates. Glenara was built by LA Vincent (architect AW Ackerman); Westbrooke (now Genadendal) by George Pigot-Moodie, who also donated the water fountain in central Rondebosch for the refreshment of horses; Mount Pleasant in it’s current formulation by Centlivres, and Strubenholme (now UCT Music school) by Hendrik Wilhelm Struben (architect James Brookes).
The roof tile patterning, gable peaks, extended eaves, decorative bargeboards and roof finials of the main house have been retained, and despite being in need of renewal, are authentic and original, as is the detailing on the veranda above and stoep below. There is prominent use of teak wood throughout the home, whereas Classical Victorian houses used mass produced elements such as broekie lace and window frames made of cheaper woods.
The current owner has stayed in the home for a good part of the previous century, housing three generations. The home’s large garden has been host to two weddings, a 90th birthday and has entertained many guests on numerous other occasions.
North facing veranda, which overlooks the garden, is an ideal location for morning tea, breakfast or even sundowners. Due to its proximity to all of Newlands’ amenities, school, universities and its size, this home is an ideal place for a young family to grow up. SACS, Westerford and UCT are all within a two to five minute drive.
The property, says Edwards, also has subdivision potential. In an area that leans in the direction of smaller erf sizes, portioning of the grounds could be a very viable option if the buyer wants to maximise the value of the property.
“This type of old home has become very rare,” says Edwards, “and this particular one is unique. That being said it is in need of a revival to its former glory — with a small amount of renovation and renewal it could be an even more impressive property.”
For further information contact Gareth Edwards on 021 761 1055 or at gareth.edwards@rawson.co.za.
