55 Blessington Street, St Kilda, Vic 3182

A masterpiece of both artistic and architectural heritage opposite the St Kilda Botanical Gardens, ‘Woodside’ c1868 stands as a testament to craftsmanship and creativity in an expansive garden setting featuring beautiful alfresco areas, a freestanding self-contained studio and a large workshop/storeroom. Infused with the spirit of its renowned past residents, artists Albert Tucker and David Bromley, this magnificent villa from famed architect George R. Johnson is a luxuriously enhanced family sanctuary.

From its carefully restored period features to bespoke murals gracing the walls, artistry is woven through every space beyond the exquisite fountain garden and illustrious verandah façade of ‘Woodside’ that’s perfectly sited facing north on a substantial 1,177sqm approx. allotment. Located on the corner of Herbert Street with secure automatic gate off-street parking, the prominent position is exceptionally private and secure only footsteps to the gardens, Acland Street and the beach.

A wide double-arched hallway provides a gallery-like introduction to glorious sitting and dining rooms, each with marble open/gas fireplaces and bay window vistas, while further is a spacious executive study (possible additional bedroom) and a captivating breakfast/meals room. Central is a huge bathroom (bath and separate shower) before three superb bedrooms (BIRs) including a stunning main bedroom ensuite lined with marble.

Each room tells its own story which is also true of a grand family living room where wide timber doors open to the surrounding garden blending the indoors with the natural beauty outside. A stunning kitchen reflects the same attention to detail with high-end Miele and Liebherr appliances along with a big butler’s pantry creating a culinary haven. Hidden treasures abound with a front veranda bar, bluestone-paved courtyard with pizza oven and BBQ and a wisteria-covered entertainment deck.

The heritage façade of a freestanding loft-style stable cloaked in vines evokes old-world charm while the interior embraces a modern transformation tailored to a range of contemporary needs. The upper-level with its extensive bedroom and bathroom is complemented by a ground-floor living, dining and kitchen areas enhanced by a polished concrete floor, retractable flyscreens and concertina doors to the garden. Nearby is a light-filled artist’s studio/workshop originally crafted by Tucker himself.
 
Additional attributes include laundry area, hydronic heating, ducted heating/cooling, alarm system and 10000-litre rainwater tanks. ‘Woodside’ is a St Kilda landmark where history, serenity and modern luxury converge to create a home that is both inspiring and timeless close to local cafes, restaurants, wine bars and shopping, a selection of excellent schools, trams, Balaclava train station and the St Kilda Marina.