Berthong — The Estate

A Rich History

A Chance To Begin A Legacy Of Your Own

Berthong is thought to have been built c1886 as a ladies’ college and designed by an architect believed, but not confirmed, to be Benjamin Brooks, an early owner of the property. Adjoining another iconic landmark residence Boomerang, Berthong has had many incarnations and names over the years, with numerous alterations and additions made throughout the course of its illustrious life.

Today the residence has undergone extensive conservation and renovation works, bringing it firmly into the 21^st century while retaining all of its classic appeal. Its uninterrupted harbour views span from the Garden Island naval base to Clark Island, creating a sublime backdrop.

New Life for a Grand Old Dame

Meticulous architectural revival

In 2005, award-winning Corben Architects were called upon to extensively restore and revive the two-storey residence, skillfully breathing new life into it and receiving an MBA award for their efforts.

Berthong accommodates five colossal ensuite bedrooms, including a private guest wing. Opening to the broad Colonial-style balcony which frames the home, the master suite is of a scale seldom seen, encompassing a lavish custom-designed dressing room and a marble ensuite with a freestanding stone bath. An additional attic retreat makes an ideal private playroom or TV room for the children.

Lavish living spaces

Entertain on a grand scale

Berthong has set the scene for countless distinguished events. Its living spaces are both grand and abundant, providing an ambient environment for all occasions. An intricate and imposing stained glass window presides over the magnificent dining room which adjoins an equally regal formal lounge room.

The north-facing casual entertaining space is framed by traditional windows and bi-folding doors, giving it a conservatory feel, flowing effortlessly to the outdoors. The TV room and home office provide additional versatile space where large families can enjoy plenty of privacy. At its heart is a sophisticated Calacatta marble kitchen with a butler’s pantry for your entertaining pleasure.

Finely detailed

Exuding classic splendour

Showcasing exceptional craftsmanship, Berthong is richly detailed and impeccably revived, ensuring visual interest at every turn. Soaring ceilings, ornate cornices and a colonnade of arched windows enhance the sense of drama and grandeur. Wide recycled floorboards add warmth to the interiors while marble fireplaces, decorative stucco mouldings and a slate roof hark back to a bygone era.

Contemporary comforts also abound, including ducted air conditioning and state of the art security with CCTV cameras.

Magnificent grounds

Private Guesthouse

The lush established grounds have a tropical feel, creating a haven of privacy for entertaining. A sandstone terrace steps down to an expanse of level lawn and a pool at the water’s edge capturing magical views. The gardens are dotted with romantic vine-covered archways, soothing water features, towering palms and a heritage black bean tree dating back to the property’s origins.

Former chauffeur’s quarters have been converted into a quaint self-contained two-storey guesthouse. A double garage accessed directly from the street is one of the area’s earliest examples of garaging after the horse and carriage era. An additional garage and extensive guest parking is secluded behind auto security gates.

An idyllic urban enclave

The best of harbourside living

The diminutive, historic suburb of Elizabeth Bay has always been a sanctuary amid the hustle and bustle of inner city life. Picturesque parks such as Beare Park and Arthur McElhone Reserve provide leisurely spaces in which to relax, or you can wander over to Rushcutters Bay Park to exercise by the water. Set sail from the CYC, enjoy sunset drinks at the marina or explore historic Elizabeth Bay House.

Stroll to the cosmopolitan dining scenes of Potts Point, Woolloomooloo or Darlinghurst. Take the scenic route through the Royal Botanic Gardens past the Opera House and walk into the CBD, with its wonderful array of cultural attractions.