Clarendon Terrace recalls the 'Marvellous Melbourne' period
Clarendon Terrace at 208-212 Clarendon Street, East Melbourne, offers a rare glimpse into Melbourne’s past and is now on the market.
Stephen Speck, associate director at Teska Carson, said interest in the property has been strong with several possibilities for a reimagined future.
“Predominantly, interest has come from medical users seeking to convert to consulting rooms and private practice, but also a mix of office, legal and religious organisations. Heritage architects Wexhaus have also prepared plans and a scheme to convert the property into a masterpiece single residence as well, which would be amazing to see realised. Our co-agents at Kay & Burton have been dealing with several residential buyers to explore these options,” he says.
Built in 1857 by Robert Huckson from the designs of Osgood Pritchard, this trio of heritage terraces was originally designed as three two-storey dwellings; however, with a grand Corinthian portico and architectural flourishes, the overall design gives the impression of a grand Victorian mansion. For 40-plus years, the property has been cared for under the National Trust.
The external walls are solid bluestone, and within, soaring ceilings, marble fireplaces and period detailing recall the ‘marvellous Melbourne’ era, preserving a sense of elegance that few properties so close to the CBD can offer.
Clarendon Terrace spans approximately 697 square metres of building across two levels, situated on a land parcel of 886 square metres, with nine on-site parking spaces.
“This is really a value-add investment to restore the property to its former glory and recreate an office, medical or potentially a residential masterpiece,” says Speck.
“The property is so large it could be configured as multiple tenancies and uses. Buyers will see extraordinary opportunity to be in such close proximity to the medical precinct, CBD and one of Melbourne’s best residential precincts.”
The location is one of the property’s most alluring factors, with proximity to Melbourne’s CBD and adjacent Fitzroy Gardens. Clarendon Street is a highly sought-after address with some of the city’s most beautiful Victorian-era properties still populating the streetscape.
“While it was originally a house, the Commercial 1 zoning opens the doors to a lot more potential uses. It has been many years since a property of this size, stature and historical significance in East Melbourne has come to market,” says Speck.
