Property of the Week: Mosman house renovation uncovers incredible local history!
When Paul and Amanda Evans purchased the tired Federation bungalow in 2013, they knew it had huge potential.
Located in a quiet, leafy street and boasting spectacular views over Mosman Bay and Sydney Harbour, the four-bedroom home was in need of a facelift to suit the needs of their growing family.
“The house already had great bones,” Paul tells Mosman Collective, “and then we discovered just how historically significant the block was.”
The Evans’ home sits on part of the original site granted to Mosman’s Founding father Archibald Mosman, in 1831.
A merchant and whaler, Archibald was allocated 4 acres (16,000 sqm) of land and built “The Nest” in 1833. With its pillared verandas, French windows and stone walls, the residence was the largest in Mosman, looking over the whaling station in the Bay below.
Perched high on the corner of Mosman St and Badham Ave, “The Nest” was eventually demolished and sub divided in 1921.
“We didn’t know about the historical significance when we bought it,” Paul said.
“But from the front yard you can see Archibald Mosman’s flag pole, which he used to signal the whaling ships coming into the Bay in the 1800s.
“And if you look closely at our bricks, which were recovered when ‘The Nest’ was demolished, you can still see convict marks on them.”
Fast forward to 2019, and the Evans’ have just completed a stunning renovation on 11a Badham Ave, breathing new life into their character family residence.
“It’s a brilliant redesign that offers elegant style and function,” Paul says, “and for us it is the perfect home.”
Architect Michelle Walker has restored and transformed the two-storey home into a contemporary haven with an abundance of space, thanks to a clever internal layout.
Airy and light, the open plan residence is the definition of laidback sophistication, with a huge Caesarstone kitchen, butler’s pantry, generous family living on both floors – and four double bedrooms, including an opulent Master suite with full bathroom.
“And we included a custom, concealed ‘mud room’ that houses the kids’ school bags, shoes and homework,” Paul said.
“It’s one of our favourite parts of the house.”
Upstairs, a trendy teen retreat promises to keep older kids happy, with its own lounge area – plus a large balcony with stunning views to the city.
11a Badham Ave, Mosman
Outdoor entertaining with a heated pool and built in barbecue complete the perfect Mosman picture, with Paul saying the area is used year-round.
“The kids swim in the pool 12 months of the year and we love the fact that we can keep an eye on them from the kitchen and living area,” he says.
Just a three-minute walk to the ferry, 11a Badham Ave is open for the first time this Saturday.
The price guide is $3.8m For more details, contact Tim Foote at Belle Property Mosman on 0416 090 191.
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