Grand character home boasts a ‘five-star resort' glow up

Courier-Mail

2 days ago

An immaculately renovated art deco home is at the centre of a rare real estate opportunity to purchase two adjoining properties and create an exclusive private estate in sought after Clayfield.
For sale by expression of interest, the properties comprise a stunning, three-level residence on a 1259sq m block at 88 Oriel Dr, along with the neighbouring 715sq m lot at 1 Stafford St.
Currently the site of a three-bedroom post-war home, the Stafford St lot has development approval for a tennis court and eight-car basement.
Owners Greg and Tamra Josephson purchased the Oriel Rd residence back in 2017 after being drawn to its position and potential.
'We were looking for a big family home and this was in very original condition,' Mr Josephson said.
'It was perched on a peak with vistas to the Gateway Bridge and mountains, and the house had character, a solid structure, and was on a big block.'
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Over a series of stages, the Josephsons transformed the period property into a stately six- bedroom home that rivals a five-star resort.
Initially they built in beneath the residence, adding a rumpus area, guest bedroom and office.
Attention then turned to cosmetic upgrades of the original house before a major renovation
in 2022 that tapped into the talents of architect Ivan Gastaldon and interior design experts Highgate House.
'The brief was to give it a five-star hotel feel,' Mr Josephson said. 'And with a bit of a minor tweak they also came up with the idea of a parents retreat.'
Spanning three luxurious levels, the property now boasts six bedrooms, six bathrooms, multiple formal and informal living spaces, an open plan kitchen and dining area, alfresco terraces and a pavilion.
Inside, luxury finishes include parquetry French oak flooring, hand-painted wallpaper, Ralph Lauren lighting, Wyer + Craw cabinetry, and imported marble, set against immaculately
restored period elements, such as coffered ceilings, and leadlight and sash windows.
The interior effortlessly connects to the exterior where covered patios and elegant porches lead to manicured gardens, grassed terraces, and a magnesium pool with spa.
The property has served as the Josephson's family home, offering ample space for everyone to retreat to and enjoy together.
'Our three children are all teens and each has their own big bedroom,' Mr Josephson said. 'We love the fact it's six bedroom and there's just so much space, with all these breakout areas that you can enjoy.
'My wife and I can go and sit by our fireplace in the parents retreat and the kids can head to the casual downstairs area on the ground floor.'
The acquisition of the block next door was part of the Josephson's long-term vision for the property.
'We planned to integrate a driveway off Oriel Rd and create a huge garage with a tennis court above it,' Mr Josephson said.
'There was going to be a lift from the garage to a garden atrium above and from there you could walk into the house.'
Alternatively, he said the new owners could retain the existing property on the Stafford St lot and enjoy rental income or utilise it for extended family.
'That next stage is for someone else to do,' Mr Josephson said.
'We're sad to sell but we're relocating to Noosa where we have a house and business interests.
'But we're proud that we went all out to create a once in a lifetime forever home, and that's what's on offer for someone now.'
The property is listed with Matt Lancashire of Ray White New Farm.