Toorak: American-Prairie-style home for sale for first time in 70 years by widow of late race car driver
This prestigious mansion in Melbourne’s inner south was built in 1914 and has only been owned by this one family ever. See what it might sell for now.
A historic American Prairie-style mansion in Toorak on one of the suburb’s most prestigious roads is up for sale for the first time in 70 years.
While the listing agent refused to comment on who the seller was, industry sources revealed Grace Davey-Milne owns the property, who is the widow of the late vintage car collector and race car driver Earl Davey-Milne.
He was known for owning a number of vintage cars.
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The five-bedroom house ‘Ballara’ at 40 Lansell Rd was originally built in 1914 was designed by architect Chris Cowper, who also designed ‘Constantia’ at 9 Hilda Cres, Hawthorn and the original home at 25 Hopetoun Rd, Toorak.
It’s expected to officially hit the market this week with a $17.5m-$18.5m price tag.
Perched high on Lansell Rd, the property spans 2217sq m and includes a pool, 10-car garage and expansive gardens.
A timber-panelled reception hall greets visitors, and there is even a “smoking room” reminiscent of the residence’s history.
There are also a number of living zones, like a large billiards room and formal sitting room.
Bay windows, timber alcoves and fireplaces are also featured consistently throughout.
Kay & Burton Stonnington partner Oliver Booth said the property was one of the most-iconic homes in Toorak.
Mr Booth added that many people had always wanted to look inside as it was an incredibly solid family abode.
“The next buyer can bring it back to its former glory,” he said.
Another mansion for sale in the area is the five-bedroom house ‘Halstead’ at 12 Lansell Rd, listed with $27m-$29.7m price hopes.
It’s been on the market since February this year.
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sarah.petty@news.com.au
Originally published as Toorak: American-Prairie-style home for sale for first time in 70 years by widow of late race car driver