Melbourne’s Most Magnificent Streetscapes – Edition #3

Tom Hawkes

Albert Park 3206 – St Vincent Place

Originally a horse racing track, St Vincent Place in Albert Park was designed in the mid 1850s marking its landmark historical significance with the modern standing as one of Melbourne’s leading precincts. Seen as the best Australian example of a residential square, the unique district is believed to be based on Tyburnia on the Paddington Estate in London. Reflecting the confidence that gold discoveries gave the new colony, the estate was developed from 1864-1870. With each and every property facing either the St Vincent Gardens or Albert Park Bowls Club, the appeal of these properties is everlasting. Housing many eminent figures from the Emerald Hill Estate (South Melbourne/Port Phillip area), the development illustrates Victorian grandeur with European and American influences.

53 St Vincent Place – ‘The Elms’

One of the most significant structures within this landmark precinct, ‘The Elms’ showcased its elite standing with its latest sale eclipsing the $11 million mark. Cornering Montague Street and making a presence with its exceptionally wide double frontage which includes four sets of double door entrances, this coveted residence enthrals with its very own prospect tower and a rooftop terrace that looks over the treetops of the gardens and onto the city skyline. This grand Victorian has undergone spectacular renovations internally to present the best of contemporary living while maintaining the charm of its spellbinding leadlight entry, open fireplaces and vast period proportions.

88 St Vincent Place – The Danks Home c.1875

An inspirational celebration of Victorian architecture with a distinct French tone, the illustrious home at 88 St Vincent Place was built for the former mayor of the Emerald Hill Council, John Danks, marked with its arched façade and creating a symmetrical picture alongside its neighbour at number 90. Originally stables, the rear of the home has been converted into extra living space and a rarely seen multiple car garage accessed via the rear on Brooke Street. Sold just a week before number 53 went under the hammer in late 2021, 88 St Vincent Place sold for just $40,000 less at $11,110,000.

33-51 St Vincent Place – ‘Rochester Terrace’ c.1869, c1879

An arresting crown over the St Vincent Place landscape, ‘Rochester Terrace’ is a group of 10 Victorian bricked terraces built during two stages in 1869 and 1879. They were an investment for Emerald Hill auctioneer, agent and speculator W P Buckhurst. The Buckhurst’s were eminent in the area and also owned the Goodrest Mansion in South Yarra. The main building within ‘Rochester Terrace’ is unmistakable with its distinct marking and classic revival architectural style. Buckhurst initially built 6 terraces commencing in 1869, then added another 4 in 1879. Influenced by London design, the terraces would house famous locals including booksellers George Robertson and Samuel Mullen. As some of the most unique and historic buildings within Melbourne, the 10 terraces have been tightly held over recent years with any future sale forecasted in excess of the $5 million mark.

75 St Vincent Place – Cutting Edge Contemporary

When the grand Victorian at 75 St Vincent Place last sold in 2013, it was an utter mess. It had open frameworks and crumbling walls, but the location never changed, nor did the charming façade. So when B.E Architecture got involved, they had to take careful consideration of the front of the building, sympathetic in details including the cornices, doors and fireplaces. Through the rear extension though they were able to unleash, using terrazzo style stone floors, bluestone walling, in-situ concrete and numerous statement features including an indoor pool. At the purchase price of $4.3 million in its dilapidated state, the standing of St Vincent Place remains the very finest within Melbourne.

44 St Vincent Place – ‘Hambleton House’

A further example of this historic pocket rests in ‘Hambleton House’, currently on the market at $11.5 million. A stately Victorian with an incredible 11 bedrooms, its colossal price tag will only be the start for the next purchaser, in its current run-down state. Listing agent Greg Hocking from Jellis Craig Port Phillip said ‘the building requires a buyer who will pay the price of the building plus several millions of dollars post that’. It sits on one of the larger allotments within the area (630sqm approx.) and showcases an unmissable façade.

Often considered the finest address in Melbourne, St Vincent Place in Albert Park forms one of the most unique precincts seen within Australia. An irresistible position with an incredible history, property prices within this famous place are set to soar to ridiculous future heights, if they haven’t already.