“Cranlana” – An Estate of Historic Significance

Magnificently situated within Toorak’s largest landholding of 1.1 hectares (11,366sqm approx.) spanning 2 separate titles, this celebrated c1900 Edwardian residence is a Victorian landmark of historic, cultural and botanic significance. The exceptional scale, elegance and grandeur of the distinguished home is matched by breathtaking parkland surrounds encompassing a Harold Desbrowe Annear designed sunken garden, numerous significant trees, a pool and north-south tennis court.

Beyond the high stone wall and Italianate wrought iron gates, a long circular drive arrives at the welcoming marble foyer flowing through to a spectacular reception room displaying a soaring ornate ceiling, roaring fireplace and timber floors. Emanating from the central hall, a gracious morning room, elegant drawing room, evocative library and grand formal dining room all feature fireplaces and glorious garden outlooks. Inviting entertaining on a lavish scale, the imposing music or ballroom with fireplace, parquetry floors, timber paneling and bay window opens through 4 sets of French doors to the garden. A series of sculleries, preparation rooms and kitchens equipped with multiple ovens including an original wood stove cater to any entertaining requirement.

An abundance of flexible accommodation comprises a captivating downstairs guest bedroom with en suite and dressing room, the main bedroom with en suite and robes, two additional bedrooms with en suites, two double bedrooms with robes, a retreat, bathroom and powder-room. In addition, there is a self-contained 1-bedroom apartment upstairs and a 1-bedroom housekeeper’s apartment and office on the ground level.

The crowning glory of this unique property is the extraordinary garden, widely believed to be the finest in the state. Completely private, utterly tranquil and filled with rare and century-old trees and plants, it is a botanic marvel. Vast formal lawns separated by low stone walls designed in 1934 by Harold Desbrowe Annear culminate in the renowned sunken garden with a gorgeous pond and fountain at its centre. Behind a 100-year-old Wisteria “hedge” there is the north-south mod grass tennis court and picturesque pool with pool house.  Numerous outhouses including a self-contained cottage, former stables, potting shed, workshop, gardener’s headquarters and triple garage are at the rear of the main residence and accessed via a second driveway.

For the first time in over one hundred years, this is an unprecedented opportunity to take over the custody and put your own stamp on a Victorian treasure. Land size: 11,366sqm (approx.).