23 Rupert Street, Windsor, QLD 4030

Immersed in Brisbane's vibrant early history and maintained by a select few families for 130 years, this exceptional late Victorian architectural marvel, situated prominently in the inner north, is now available for purchase. Resting on a substantial hilltop estate of nearly half an acre, this exquisitely adorned and meticulously preserved residence epitomizes grandeur and sophistication. With formal reception rooms, expansive verandahs, 12 fireplaces, a service wing, heated pool, and a modern bungalow, it offers unparalleled elegance.

Inscribed on Queensland's State Heritage Register in 1992, this imposing two-story home was commissioned by the original landowner and designed by the esteemed architect G.H.M. Addison. Addison's portfolio includes iconic Brisbane landmarks like The Old Museum, Bowen Hills, the Albert Street Uniting Church, and The Mansions at 40 George Street.

The daughter of the present owner fondly reminisces about her upbringing within these walls, where she enjoyed endless games of hide and seek with siblings and friends in the spacious interiors. Guests were always welcomed with open arms, and numerous joyous occasions, including family weddings and grand celebrations, were hosted on the verandahs and sprawling paved grounds, accompanied by sweeping daytime views and the twinkling city lights at night.

The exterior of the main residence is embellished with Hendra face brickwork, steep slate-clad rooflines, intricate lattice friezes, and elaborate cast iron balustrades. Inside, the distinguished grandeur is showcased through intricately designed leaded glass, detailed dark timber dado paneling, rich solid doors and architraves, soaring internal ceiling heights, and ornate Italianate-style double archways, creating a truly breathtaking interior.

Several rooms still boast their original wallpapers, complemented by French doors, tall sash windows, and formal full-length drapes. The meticulously preserved open fireplaces and mantelpiece surrounds, along with pull cord-operated chandeliers and finely crafted timber joinery in walnut, oak, and mahogany, showcase a level of quality that is unparalleled.

On the lower level, opulent principal rooms stem from the grand entrance vestibule and stair hall, including a library, private study, and formal living and dining areas, all meticulously adorned in period style and seamlessly connected to the verandah. Additionally, the ground floor features a bank-style strongroom formerly housing State Archive documents, stairs leading to a cellar carved into the natural porphyry rock of the landscape, a guest suite, bathroom, and laundry facilities.

From the twin arched stair hall, ascend the elegantly crafted dark timber staircase adorned with classical ornamentation, reinforced by a stained-glass ceiling and a radiant skylight above. Arrive at the upper level, where four individually styled family bedrooms await. Additionally, two renovated bathrooms grace this level, one of which includes a luxurious spa bath.

The master bedroom, complete with an elegant sitting room and private dressing area, boasts expansive proportions. Throughout the upper floor, operational log-burning fireplaces, connected to the home's four chimney stacks, provide warmth and ambiance. French doors adorn the rooms, allowing access to the breezy wraparound verandah adorned with delicate filigree balustrades. Passive ventilation is inherent in this early yet expertly designed residence, facilitated by the upward movement of warm air through ceiling roses and elevated wall vents. Additionally, the dense foot-thick internal walls provide natural insulation, ensuring comfortable temperatures are maintained.

Updated as needed, the residence now features a gourmet chef's kitchen crafted from stainless steel and solid timber by esteemed Brisbane cabinetmaker, Wyer + Craw. Complete with a full suite of Miele appliances and an integrated Jennair fridge, plate glass windows allow for captivating city views from both the kitchen and the enclosed private patio.

Adjacent to the stunning paved outdoor terrace, featuring a limestone firepit and a heated in-ground pool, is a billiard room adorned with solid silky oak joinery and a built-in drinks area, ideal for family entertainment. A walkway from this area leads to the two-bedroom bungalow.

Perfect for extended family, a live-in caretaker, or an au-pair seeking independent living, the heritage-approved bungalow development offers an ultra-contemporary retreat set below the original residence's ground level. Featuring expansive timber-framed sliding glass doors and windows in both indoor living areas and bedrooms, the breathtaking panoramas are equally showcased. The bungalow also includes an outdoor terrace for entertaining, stone-topped cabinetry with Bosch appliances, a study nook, and two bathrooms.

While the entire 1824m2 estate holds a prominent position, it enjoys seclusion at the end of an elevated cul-de-sac. Ample off-street parking is provided, including garage space for four cars. For added security, the property is equipped with cameras and a monitored alarm system, and it is fully enclosed by a secure fence.

This unique opportunity presents a once-in-a-lifetime chance to acquire and cherish a beloved, majestic family home and estate steeped in rich history.

**Disclaimer:** Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of these particulars, no warranty is given by the vendor or the agent as to their accuracy. Interested parties should not rely on these particulars as representations of fact but must instead satisfy themselves by inspection or otherwise. The website possibly filtered this property into a price range for functionality purposes. Any estimates are not provided by the agent and should not be taken as a price guide.