Done With Flair And Loving Care

Newcastle Herald

Saturday September 20, 2008

Jade Lazarevic

SPEERS POINT

Auction

Address: 276 The Esplanade.

House: Weatherboard and Colorbond on 1688 square metres.

Agent: Sue Odgers, Elders Real Estate, 4952 3744.

Auction: On site, October 11 at 3pm.

Price range: Bidding from $1 million.

Inspect: Today 2pm to 3pm.

ONE of the most recognised properties on The Esplanade has gone on the market.

The owners of Elonara, which is perched high overlooking Lake Macquarie, havehad to put their much-loved home up for sale due to illness.

Harley and Renate Adams bought the magnificent three-bedroom property five years ago.

"We have known the house for a long time and loved it every day we went past," Mrs Adams said.

"We used to live on an acreage and we wanted to live near the lake. We wanted to have a place where we can walk to cafes, ride our bikes and go for walks."

Built in 1904, Elonara is framed by four giant date palms and landscaped gardens.

A grand staircase centred at the front of the home leads up to the wrap-around timber balcony that provides spectacular views over Lake Macquarie.

In the summer months the couple enjoys a southerly breeze on the south side of the balcony while the north side catches the sun during the winter.

"We are always outside," Mrs Adams said. "We just enjoy living here watching the sailing regatta or the rowing boats in the morning."

There are high, ornate ceilings and french doors lining the front of the home in the dining area and living room provide natural light and uninterrupted views of the water.

The couple has undertaken extensive renovations throughout the home to restore the Federation-style charm of this landmark property, while also retaining original features such a marble fireplace in the living area.

The house was gutted to make way for new gyprock and cornices while they replaced timber floorboards and polished the old ones where possible.

A new Colorbond roof has also been fitted.

The couple estimates they have spent around $300,000 on renovations since purchasing the property.

The hallway upstairs leads to two bedrooms on the left, including the master bedroom.

At the right the hallway opens to the lounge room and the new kitchen that has granite benchtops, stainless steel appliances and a hidden two-drawer dishwasher.

Leadlight glass in the cabinets gives the kitchen a vintage feel while a green glass splashback complements the olive green colour scheme on the wall.

A renovated bathroom to the right upstairs has a deep claw-foot bath; there is also a laundry at the rear.

A paved area at the back of the house has space for a barbecue and outdoor setting.

A timber staircase leads down to a spacious bedroom and a large self-contained flat that could be used as an extra bedroom, study or retreat, as it is fitted with a kitchen and bathroom.

Two large round windows provide water views.

"We love this house but unfortunately due to health reasons we have to sell," Mrs Adams said.

"It will be hard to part with the property but we have no choice."

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© 2008 Newcastle Herald

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