Alfriston: Simply glorious

Extensive renovations have far from dented the character of this Alfriston landmark homestead. By CEDRIC GRAY.

Giant oak trees at the entrance to Oak Park, Phillip Rd, Alfriston, are a local landmark, yet even better known is the gracious colonial villa on the 3.952ha property.

The villa is an Alfriston identity. Built in the early days of last century when it was known as "The Queen of Alfriston", it has been treated with tender loving care by successive owners who have carried out extensive renovations and extensions.

All the graceful lines have been retained, in spite of the fact that a conservatory-style snooker room and sun room have been added, and french doors now provide access from several rooms to the glorious lawns and gardens.

The gardens are almost as established as the villa, and their beauty has scarcely been compromised by the more recent additions, like the salt-water swimming pool, concrete tennis court and gazebo-enclosed spa pool.

The peaceful setting is further enhanced by mature native bush, which shelters Oak Park to the south-east. Mainly kahikatea - with other species attracting a variety of birdlife - the bush arches around grazing land near the villa and extends along the banks of the Papakura stream.

The stream has been bridged to provide access to two further paddocks, which are well-fenced and in excellent pasture.

The villa, however, is the jewel in the Oak Park crown. There is more than 400sq m of floor space enclosed by a wrap-around veranda.

The kitchen extends along one side of the villa before opening to a neat family dining area and family living room.

True to tradition, the kitchen has a coal range stove for winter warmth, and cooking if required. There are three open fires and a woodburner elsewhere in the house.

The living area and snooker room open to the gardens and capture maximum sunlight.

There are four bedrooms - with the master bedroom enjoying an en suite and walk-in wardrobe - two offices and a main bathroom.

A separate one-bedroom unit occupies a sheltered site to the rear of the villa, close to the three-car garaging, workshop and loose box.

Owned by John and Sally Illingsworth, the property will be auctioned by Bayleys, Papakura, on December 4. Contact Chris Duder on 298 2525 for details.