An historic homestead in Morpeth will soon be looking for a new custodian.
The former home of mayor John Hogan, Kiora Villa, is expected to fetch around $2.5 million.
Nestled among manicured lawns and mature elms and eucalyptus trees, on the corner of High Street and Edward Street, the home was built in 1879.
Reputed to have welcomed the governor of the colony and other VIPs during its time, it has been lovingly restored over the years, now proudly wearing its heritage.
Formal grounds, clipped box hedges, twin-gabled frontage, ornate cast-iron lacework, wide bull-nose verandahs and carved timber barge boards are some of its most striking features.
And, while colourful Pin Oaks, oversized Chinese Elms and aromatic Lemon Scented Gums welcome guests at the entrance to the homestead, its impressiveness continues indoors.
Original polished floorboards, tall decorative, pressed-metal ceilings and ornate plasterwork boats of the home’s grandeur.
A formal lounge and spacious dining room meet at a marble fireplace that sits at the heart of the home, hinting of its entertaining past.
Then it is French doors that open onto the verandahs offering a seamless blend of indoor and outdoor living.
Kiora Villa boasts three bedrooms and two bathrooms.
Home office options, a cozy library overlooking the garden, clawfoot bath and a studio once used as horse stables, all remind of its past.
Yet now this home shines with modern features including European appliances, stone countertops and a combustion fire.
Kiora is a grand estate sprawling across one acre of meticulously landscaped grounds overlooking the Morpeth Common and Wildfowl Reserve.
It is currently being prepared for sale.
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