Expression of Interest – Ending Friday 27th November 4:00pm.
Occupying an exceptional 3,183sqm (approx.) allotment directly opposite Seaford Beach, with an impressive 46.5-metre rear frontage to Kananook Creek, Stokesay presents a rare opportunity to secure a property of remarkable scale, heritage and future potential. Available for only the second time since its construction circa 1922, this state-significant residence offers an extraordinary foundation to create a landmark coastal estate, explore future development possibilities or secure a truly unique long-term investment.
Designed by JFW (Frederick) Ballantyne, a pupil of renowned architect Walter Burley Griffin, Stokesay is one of Victoria’s few surviving examples of Griffin’s patented Knitlock construction system. Inspired by Griffin’s own home, Pholiota, its distinctive design and craftsmanship earned recognition as Australia’s Prettiest Home by Australian Home Beautiful in 1925.
Rich in character, the residence retains a magnificent central living room with an open fireplace and soaring ceiling, handcrafted timber detailing and original features. The generous accommodation includes a dining room adjoining the kitchen, two spacious bedrooms with dressing rooms, a main bedroom with adjoining sitting room, a maid’s bedroom and a principal bathroom. Its heritage significance provides a compelling opportunity to restore and celebrate the existing home, while the extraordinary landholding invites consideration of an exciting future.
For developers, investors or visionary owner-occupiers, the substantial allotment offers scope to investigate potential townhouse development across part of the land, subject to heritage restrictions, council approval and all relevant planning requirements (STCA). Alternatively, renovate the existing residence, integrate its historic character into a contemporary luxury home, or create an exclusive beachside compound with Stokesay retained as distinctive accommodation for guests, extended family or staff.
Established gardens, a small olive orchard, distinctive Bunya Bunya trees, a potter’s shed and garage provide an appealing foundation, while the property’s natural surrounds add another layer of distinction. Mangroves line the adjoining creek frontage, reinforcing the rare connection to the local waterways and wildlife. Directly opposite Seaford Beach and backing onto Kananook Creek, the estate enjoys an exceptional relationship with the coastline and surrounding wetlands, with approximately 7.5 kilometres of creek-side wetlands and natural habitat to explore.