Melbourne’s Most Magnificent Streetscapes – Edition #6

Tom Hawkes

One of the more untouched period façade groupings within Boroondara and the entirety of Melbourne, Hawthorn Grove marks a tremendous showing of architectural significance with its grand focus on late 19^thcentury buildings on relatively large allotments. Bounded by the thriving Glenferrie Road precinct and the familiar Power Street, the prime inner Melbourne position undoubtedly inspired its initial construction and helps to maintain the wealth and prestige seen in this famous boulevard today. As the wealth has grown on Hawthorn Grove, there is seemingly constant movement of trades in the street. Although a few contemporary homes have appeared, it is mainly grand renovations and extensions that occur beyond the facades of the protected homes.

47 Hawthorn Grove – ‘Albilbah’ c.1898

One of at least five Hawthorn Grove houses built by eminent local builder/architect Frederick Green, ‘Albilbah’ is in the ‘L’ shaped villa style often seen in buildings from the period. Constructed during a time of great architectural innovation, and particularly with influence from William Morris Red House in Britain, this very late 19^th century period home features a crossover of styles with its pronounced bay window, red brick tones, return verandah and timber fretwork, sometimes labelled as Freestyle Edwardian or what now would likely fall under the Federation style. The brickwork has now been tuck-pointed and retains its captivating façade amongst its level neighbours.

42 Hawthorn Grove – The Hidden Ballroom c.1896

Converted to a boarding house during the 1940s and divided into four different apartments, 42 Hawthorn Grove made a stunning arrival to the property market in 2017 when it revealed its coveted originality including a grand ballroom. Hidden away for many decades, it wasn’t until the daughter of the original homeowner informed owners Barry Inman and Virginia Wellington of the ballroom’s concealed presence. They set about restoring the Victorian grandeur including the great stature and height of the ballroom, and achieved a sale in late 2017 for $6,610,000.

12 Hawthorn Grove – ‘Mylura’ c.1899

A showcase of magnificent Federation beauty through an unmissable façade and unmatched level of internal character, including 4m high decorative ceilings, 12 Hawthorn Grove or ‘Mylura’ encompasses the grand attraction of this landmark streetscape. An enthralling façade, a huge allotment (over 1300sqm) and an exciting quantity of potential for contemporary luxuries, ‘Mylura’ retains much of its irresistible charm including Baltic Pine floorboards, original fireplaces and classic archways. Likely to desire a few luxurious modern upgrades due to the price point, the home still managed to succeed in 2022 at auction, selling for $7.92 million.

15 Hawthorn Grove – The Parading Tower

Little is known about the sweeping Victorian at 15 Hawthorn Grove other than its stately rendered tower that strikes an architectural tone and looks west towards the CBD. One impressive allotment of over 2,300 sqm, the home’s most recent public sale dates back to 1995, when it sold for a relatively supreme amount of $1.426 million. With a visual atmosphere akin to a park, 15 Hawthorn Grove will be sure to be in one of Melbourne’s highest residential sales upon its next title change.

55 Hawthorn Grove – European Modernism

Standing out amongst the 19^th century streetscape, 55 Hawthorn Grove certainly strikes a distinctly contemporary note with its French Provincial influences and symmetrical nature, crafted by the prominent Dean Dugdale. The former VFL footballer for North Melbourne now, high-end home builder, aided his own construction aptitude with the assistance of Herbert Howes in design and Samantha Eades in the interior. Taking inspiration from Versailles in the domed foyer, the opulent ‘features list’ seems never-ending with Woca-finished timbers, American Oak floors, Ross Gardam lighting, Halcyon Lake carpets, Roger Seller rose gold tapware, Silver Galaxy marble, Gaggenau appliances and a private lift to all levels. Dugdale sold the home in 2017 for $8.565m.