Nestled on what is reputedly Adelaide’s most exclusive residential street, the Coonabar residence stands as an icon of timeless elegance and historical prestige and is now on the market.
Completed in the 1880s, this distinguished bluestone villa merges Italianate and Victorian architectural elements, showcasing a double frontage adorned with bay windows, a prominent tower, and ornamental finials that beckon visitors into a world of refined luxury.
Throughout its rich history, Coonabar has hosted Adelaide’s most distinguished residents. Notable figures such as John Thomas Fitch, a pioneering department store owner, and Hugh Davis, a prominent stock agent and managing director, once called this residence home. These families were synonymous with Adelaide’s commercial and legal elite, shaping the city’s social and economic landscape over the years. Coonabar’s walls have stood witness to Adelaide’s evolution, embodying a legacy of enduring success and refinement.
Architectural Splendor and Interior Opulence
Approaching Coonabar, guests are welcomed by two grand entrances adorned with leadlight transom surrounds, setting the stage for the palatial interior within. The expansive central hallway, adorned with oak boards, leads to interconnected formal rooms boasting high decorative ceilings and fireplaces—a setting equally suited to large-scale events and intimate gatherings alike.
Downstairs, the residence unfolds with two expansive bedrooms overlooking manicured gardens, complemented by a luxurious principal suite. This haven blends traditional architectural features seamlessly with contemporary design elements, featuring a fashionista’s dream dressing room and an exquisite designer ensuite with a private outdoor shower nestled in a serene Japanese courtyard garden room.
Upstairs, a dedicated children’s area offers three king-sized bedrooms opening onto a rear balcony, alongside a modern steam-room style bathroom and a practical laundry room complete with integrated ironing facilities—a testament to Coonabar’s ability to cater to every facet of family life.
Modern Amenities and Timeless Charm
Beyond its historical footprint, Coonabar seamlessly integrates modern living spaces designed for comfort and entertainment. Expansive open-plan living areas feature floor-to-ceiling windows framing views of the pool and tennis court, while a centrally located kitchen with custom joinery and a monumental island bench serves as the heart of the home—a space for both culinary creations and convivial gatherings.
A discreetly concealed study space, accessed via a secret door, offers a serene work-from-home environment with views of the pool. Adjacent, a hotel-style bathroom suite provides luxurious amenities for guests, while hidden corners reveal a walk-in pantry, large laundry room, and a cellar for the discerning collector.
Connected by a colonnaded loggia, a delightful alfresco dining pavilion overlooks the lush gardens, leading to a self-contained retreat that complements the outdoor entertainment areas. Here, a living/games room with polished concrete floors and a bar invites relaxation and festive gatherings, complete with direct access to a secure double garage—an ideal setup for hosting memorable soirées.
Enchanting Gardens and Outdoor Escapes
The grounds of Coonabar captivate with their timeless allure and modern charm. Once meticulously maintained by a full-time gardener celebrated for award-winning blooms, they have since been transformed by landscape designer Jo Connolly into a contemporary masterpiece highlighted in Australian House & Garden Magazine. From expansive lawns to intimate garden rooms, each area—including a parterre garden, groves of ornamental pear trees, and a Mediterranean-inspired pathway adorned with sculptures—collaborates to craft an oasis of serenity and refinement.
At the rear of the estate, resort-style amenities await—a resurfaced synthetic tennis court once graced by Sir Donald Bradman himself, and a heated lap pool with a shallow wading step, surrounded by a high bar table and a pizza oven—an ultimate retreat for relaxation and entertainment alike.
The Enduring Legacy of Coonabar
As Coonabar opens its doors to the privileged few who seek not just a residence but a storied piece of Adelaide’s history, it remains a beacon of architectural splendor, luxurious living, and timeless elegance. In every corner, from its meticulously preserved facade to its thoughtfully modernized interiors and enchanting gardens, Coonabar invites residents and guests to experience a harmonious blend of heritage and contemporary comfort—a rare offering on Adelaide’s most exclusive residential street.
In the heart of Adelaide’s cultural and historical tapestry, Coonabar stands not just as a residence but as a living testament to the enduring allure of distinguished architecture and the art of gracious living.